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Sharing the road with motorcycles

On Behalf of | Aug 25, 2019 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

The recent crash outside of Walker made the local news for a good reason. A rider on a Harley Davidson traveling westbound on LA Hwy 1024 East of Hwy. 449 crashed head-on into a Chevrolet Tahoe that was traveling east. According to news reports, the driver of the SUV crossed over the center line, causing fatal injuries in the rider but no harm to himself. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. and the driver was checked for impairment but did not appear to be intoxicated at the time of the accident. The results of the test have not been announced.

In light of this tragic death, we thought it would be an excellent time to remind drivers of cars and trucks that they need to be especially careful around motorcyclist. It is important to remember that motorcycles are smaller, more maneuverable and generally faster than cars or trucks. Their relative size and speed also make them difficult to read, so they often appear farther away than they are.

5 tips for safely sharing the road

These tips may help next time a driver finds themselves near or next to a rider:

  1. Follow a 4-second rule: Increase your driving distance rule to 4 seconds when following a motorcycle. This will enable drivers to better respond to any unexpected actions by the rider.
  2. Respect the conditions: Bad weather is much more dangerous for riders, so drivers should give them plenty of leeway (or even offer assistance).
  3. Look again before turning left: Cars and trucks turning left and hitting an oncoming motorcyclist going straight make up 44% of all two-vehicle accidents involving a motorcycle. Make eye contact with the motorcyclist before making the turn.
  4. Check blind spots often: It is easier to lose bikers in a blind spot. They are aware of this and usually try to avoid this, but the rider may not realize that they are riding in a blind spot.
  5. Be kind: Safe driving means sharing the road with others regardless of their mode of transportation.

Reckless driving is always an issue

Whether the other vehicle has two, three, four, or 18 wheels, drivers always need to be careful. This can help reduce the chances of property damage, injury or even death. Victims involved in an accident that is not their fault are advised to contact a personal injury attorney with experience working here in Louisiana. They can have victims, and their families get the compensation they deserve.

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