Blind spot accidents are a common cause of motorcycle crashes. They’re even more dangerous for motorcyclists since their vehicles are much smaller than most other cars on the road and are often harder to see. When drivers cannot see bikers in their blind spots, the biker can sustain serious injuries. Since motorcyclists have little protection, their injuries are often catastrophic, and accidents can even lead to death.
If you’ve been injured in a blind spot motorcycle accident in St. Petersburg, Marsalisi Law is here to help.
Identifying Blind Spots for Motorcycles
All vehicles have blind spots, including motorcycles. Motorcycles are not as large as vehicles, but you should still be aware of them. Motorcycle blind spots are directly behind you and about the length of your bike on both sides.
As a motorcyclist, however, you must also be wary of blind spots for trucks and cars. These vehicles have the same blind spots as you do, but on top of that, drivers may also be unable to see more than 20–30 feet in front of their vehicle.
How to Check for Blind Spots
Because drivers have no direct line of sight in blind spots, they cannot detect hazards, including other motorists. Since you can’t entirely rely on mirrors to check these zones, there are additional steps you can take when maneuvering traffic on a bike.
3 Tips for Identifying Blind Spots on a Motorcycle
When backing out of a parking spot, check for any activity behind you. Use your rearview mirrors and physically look over your shoulder to verify there is no one behind your car. When actually on the road, know where your blind spots and the blind spots of other drivers are. Lastly, whenever merging or changing lanes, always use hand or turn signals to show your intent to move.
How Motorists Can Avoid Blind Spot Accidents
Motorists and motorcyclists alike can help reduce the risk of blind spot accidents by following necessary safety measures. Drivers need to be aware that it’s hard to see motorcycles, and bikers can take simple steps to avoid taking unnecessary risks that can reduce their visibility.
Adjust Mirrors
An easy way to avoid a collision due to blind spots is to make sure your mirrors are adjusted correctly. If someone else drove before you, or you’re driving in someone else’s vehicle, take the time to adjust the mirrors.
3-part Check
When you’re changing lanes, use the 3-part check. This includes checking your rearview mirror, side view mirror, and looking over your shoulder. By completing all of these steps, you can reduce your chances of hitting another vehicle or a motorcycle.
Signal Lane Changes
Drivers tend only to use a blinker when there’s someone following close behind them. However, motorcyclists may accidentally hide in your blind spots. Using your blinker to change lanes can give others a warning if you don’t see them.
Additional Considerations for Avoiding Blind Spots
Motorcyclists have a much higher fatality rate than their motorist counterparts. You should not put your faith in surrounding vehicles to see you and drive safely. Always avoid riding in cars’ blind spots. If you need to pass a vehicle, it’s best to do so quickly and safely to avoid sitting in a place where drivers cannot see you.
You can also wear bright clothing that can increase your visibility to others on the road. Many bike shops also sell reflective tape you can put on your bike to help drivers see you better at night.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Florida
After a motorcycle accident, medical bills are more than likely to pile up, and it’s natural to be worried about how you will cover all the expenses. If your accident resulted from someone else’s negligence, do not hesitate to reach out to Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi. He’ll launch a thorough investigation into your case and the circumstances surrounding your accident.
We believe that any person who has been injured deserves nothing less than the full attention of a motorcycle accident attorney in St. Petersburg whose primary interest is your well-being. Call (727) 800-5052 or complete an online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
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