From the time we are small children, we are taught the value of sharing. Parents, for example, teach their toddlers how to share their toys and as we grow the number of things we learn to share grows. We learn to share ideas and even how to share our living spaces. However, most motorists are unaware of the importance of sharing the open road with other drivers. Even though motorists are rarely on the road alone, most do not think of driving in terms of “sharing.”
The concept of “sharing the road” is the concept that drivers must learn how to drive around different types of vehicles. For example, a driver of a passenger vehicle like a car or SUV must take special precautions when driving near a motorcycle. Since the vast majority of vehicles on the road at any given time are cars, motorists often think that any burden should be on the motorcycle rider and not on him or her. Sharing the road means both drivers and riders need to take precautions. However, even when both groups understand the importance of sharing the road, it does not mean that they know how best to do so.
Sharing the road extends beyond recognizing that both riders and drivers have the same rights and privileges when it comes to the road. That being said, it is a good place to start! To make sure you that you are doing your part, here are steps ALL passenger vehicle drivers can do to share the road:
- The advantage that motorcycles have over cars is that their smaller size enables them to change lanes more quickly than a car. That being said, motorcycle riders very much rely on motorists to use their turn signals appropriately.
- Look twice. Before a motorist makes a left-hand turn, it is important that they look twice. Too often motorists turn left in front of a motorcycle, which causes the rider to collide into the vehicle. This often fatal accident occurs because the motorist gaged incorrectly how fast the motorcycle was going and thought he or she had enough time to make the turn.
- Do not rely on mirrors alone. Before changing lanes, motorists should always do a visual check of their blind spots.
- Give space. It is important for motorists to give motorcycles the same amount of space or more as they would another passenger vehicle. A minimum of a three to four second following distance is recommended when following a motorcycle. A rear-end collision between a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle can be deadly.
- Do not crowd a motorcycle. Sometimes, motorists make the mistake of stealing lane space from a motorcycle, especially when passing. While motorcycles take up less lane space when compared to a passenger vehicle, a motorcycle rider needs the entire lane to be able to maneuver.
If your loved one was seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, the seasoned Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. can help. Our experienced team of Kansas City Injury Attorneys will make sure that your rights are protected and that your family receives the compensation it deserves. You can trust the Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to work tirelessly for you just as they have worked for countless other injury victims around the area, in both Kansas and Missouri. To schedule a consultation with one of our skilled injury attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.