Seattle roads and highways can be notoriously congested during commute and rush hours. Drivers may have their attention drawn in many directions as they navigate their routes, avoid accidents, and change speeds to keep up with traffic. Unfortunately, some drivers fail to include in the safe operating practices giving attention to smaller vehicles on the roads.
Motorcycles are often missed by drivers of larger vehicles and hit because they are apparently unseen. Even when they follow the rules of the road, motorcycles can suffer collisions and their riders can sustain serious and even life-threatening harm from negligent drivers. Understanding how and why motorcycles are hard for drivers to see can help all parties avoid the pain and suffering that comes from motorcycle accidents.
Visibility issues for motor vehicle drivers
Any driver should be prepared to encounter different types of vehicles and different road conditions whenever they get behind the wheel. This includes driving near and with motorcycles. However, and as mentioned, drivers can miss seeing motorcycles even when they are properly in roadways. Drivers miss motorcycles for several reasons, including:
- Looking for and recognizing only larger vehicles
- Not checking their surroundings and failing to use their mirrors
- Failing to follow other traffic laws
Drivers who fail to take steps to see motorcycles on the roads with them can cause devastating accidents and serious injuries to others.
Increasing recognition of motorcycles by riders
Motorcycle riders can be proactive to promote their recognition and visibility. Riders can wear reflective or bright clothing to make them stand out against other roadway elements. They may use their lights to brighten their vehicles to increase their chances of being seen. They can follow all traffic rules so that they are always where they are supposed to be and in the eyesight of other drivers.
Common sense practices can help prevent deadly motorcycle accidents from ever happening. Unfortunately, too many such collisions happen each year and cause devastation to families. There are no easy answers after a motorcycle accident but affected individuals can seek counsel from legal professionals who support accident victims.
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