What Makes Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists Dangerous in California?

Driving alongside motorcyclists on California’s roads presents unique challenges. Their smaller size, increased maneuverability, and reduced visibility make accidents more likely if drivers don’t take the proper precautions. What makes sharing the road with motorcyclists dangerous is that California’s roads are among the busiest in the country, and the unique conditions for motorcyclists often lead to a higher risk of accidents. For example, in 2021, motorcycle fatalities accounted for 13.8% of all motor vehicle deaths in the state, despite motorcycles comprising a far smaller fraction of vehicles on the road. The Barnes Firm emphasizes the importance of understanding these risks to help make roads safer for all drivers.

This guide will explore factors contributing to these risks, including motorcycle behavior, causes of accidents, and actionable safety tips. We’ll also touch on the importance of seeking legal help if you’re involved in a motorcycle-related accident.

Motorcyclist Behavior in California

Motorcyclists must adjust their driving to remain safe in traffic. California is one of the few states where lane splitting—riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic—is legal. However, just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s always safe. Both motorcyclists and drivers must stay alert to minimize the risk of accidents. According to the California DMV, motorcyclists who lane split should avoid excessive speeds and narrow spaces to reduce potential hazards. While legal, it is highly delicate to riders and car drivers alike.

The California DMV indicates that before riding, one must consider several safety measures, including taking a safety course and proper attire in clothing, helmets, and protective gear. Here are some helpful tips to have you ride safely:

• Wear appropriate gear, including DOT-compliant helmets.
• Make signals about your movements.
• Avoid lingering in blind spots or riding close to larger vehicles like trucks.

Despite this, motorcyclists are still vulnerable because there are no physical barriers between them and other oncoming vehicles.

Common Causes of Accidents Between Cars and Motorcyclists

Collisions involving motorcyclists occur for many reasons. Motorcyclists are highly vulnerable to injury when involved in a collision. In 2021, motorcycles accounted for 13.8% of traffic deaths, despite comprising 3.5% of all registered vehicles and 0.6% of all vehicle miles traveled. Here is a breakdown of the most common causes of these collisions based on research related to traffic safety:

Distracted Driving

A single glance at a text message or adjusting the GPS can mean the difference between a safe trip and a tragic accident. Many drivers don’t realize how easy it is to lose sight of a motorcyclist in their blind spot—until it’s too late.

Reckless Driving

Speeding up, tailgating, and rapid lane changes without checking for the proximity of a motorcycle heighten the hazards for any road user.

Blind spots

Because of their size, motorcycles often hide in blind spots, which becomes dangerous during lane changes and maneuvering around large vehicles like trucks or buses.

Speeding

Excessive speed poses dangers for both motorcyclists and car drivers. For drivers, speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions, while motorcyclists face heightened risk when riding at unsafe speeds.

Weather Conditions

Rain, fog, and other poor weather conditions reduce visibility and make roads slippery, creating significant challenges for both motorcyclists and drivers. Reduced visibility makes it harder to see road signs, obstacles, and other vehicles, while slippery surfaces increase the risk of losing traction, making braking and turning more dangerous.

Safety Tips When Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists

Drivers hold a significant responsibility in ensuring the safety of motorcyclists.

Checking Blind Spots

Always carefully check your blind spots when changing lanes. While mirrors are great tools, they can only show you so much, and a smaller vehicle, such as a motorcycle, may not even appear in the mirrors. Many times, it’s crucial just to turn your head to check your blind spot and avoid collision. Be attentive, especially in heavy flow conditions or frequent lane changeovers.

Be Careful in Intersections

Intersections are some of the most dangerous spots for motorcyclists. These zones will likely have sudden stops, turns, or unexpected movements. Always yield to motorcycles, irrespective of the assumed right of way. Slow down and double-check for oncoming motorcycles before proceeding through intersections.

Lane Splitting

Check your distance when a lane-splitting motorcycle is around. Try not to move too suddenly, and avoid lane changing while they are passing. Motorcycles must assess the circumstances, such as lane width, size of vehicles, road and vehicle conditions, and environment, including weather and lighting, while lane splitting. They should avoid high-speed differentials, large cars, and riding on the shoulder (which is illegal). It’s safer to split between far-left lanes, avoid blind spots, and use bright gear and high beams to improve visibility.

Using Turn Signals

Always signal early when turning or changing lanes to give motorcycles enough time to react. Motorcyclists can be more demanding when it comes to seeing in your blind spots, so clear communication through turn signals is vital to avoid sudden surprises on the road. This simple habit can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Driving in Heavy Traffic

Be careful in stop-and-go traffic: Riders may lane-split to get through traffic jams, so be alert and stay in your lane. Don’t suddenly change lanes without checking; a steady speed and predictable movements help riders anticipate their next moves and lessen the chances of collision.

Keep Distance

Never tailgate a motorcycle, and do not follow too closely. Because motorcycles are much smaller than most vehicles, they can stop much more quickly. This would give ample time to slow down or stop in case a need arises. The same buffer zone between riders provides extra safety against obstacles or debris suddenly coming up on the road and provides much safer driving conditions.

Tips for Sharing the Road in Different Weather Conditions

California’s weather is quite unpredictable. It could be foggy in the morning and icy in mountain areas. Drive according to the conditions to lower the risk for motorcycles.

Rainy Days

Rain significantly reduces the traction of tires for all vehicles, making the roads slippery and increasing stopping distances. Motorcycles can be even more hazardous because of their relatively small contact patch with the ground. Slow down, avoid hard braking, and give motorcycles extra space to maneuver safely. Remember, sudden movements can be more hazardous on wet pavement.

Icy Roads

Ice is one of the most hazardous conditions for two-wheeled vehicles since even a tiny patch can send a motorcycle out of control. Driving slowly and carefully will be necessary in cars, avoiding sudden movements such as braking or sharp turns. Always give motorcycles plenty of space and expect extra time to adjust to icy patches.

Morning Fog

Fog dramatically reduces visibility, making it difficult to spot other vehicles, especially the small ones like motorcycles. Always use your low-beam headlights to increase your visibility without causing glare. Give even more space to motorcycles; their smaller size with a single headlight can undoubtedly make them much more difficult to notice during thick fog conditions. One needs a lot of patience and extra care while driving in accident-prone, misty conditions.

Get Help From a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents are usually complex and a motorcycle accident lawyer can help determine liability. For years, The Barnes Firm has been assisting victims in recovering compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering with the help of our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers. You can reach us at (800) 800-0000 for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through every step of the process.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
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