As a motorcyclist, other drivers play a role in your safety

Motorcyclists often get a bad rap. They can be viewed as dangerous and discourteous to those around them. Is this really the case?

While it is true that motorcycles are involved in a higher proportion of fatal accidents than other vehicles, this doesn’t mean that riders are necessarily to blame. It is important to remember that motorcyclists simply do not have the same protection as cars, trucks and SUVs. Sometimes, it is the behavior of other road users that initiated the collision in the first place.

Outlined below are some driving behaviors that place motorcyclists at risk of serious injury.

Distractions among drivers

Distracted driving is a huge problem in the United States. Cell phone use, consuming food while driving, talking to passengers and mere daydreaming are just some of the more common distractions. While motorcyclists have a responsibility to be aware of their surroundings, this responsibility applies equally to other road users. If a motorcyclist ends up being hit by a distracted driver, then they are bound to come off worse in terms of injuries.

Viewing motorcycles as an imposition

Unfortunately, drivers and motorcyclists don’t always view each other as equals, but as “others”. The truth of the matter is that motorcyclists have just as much right to road privileges as anyone else. Drivers commonly see motorcycles as having an unfair advantage because of their ability to cut through traffic efficiently, especially if the person on four wheels is running late for an appointment. As long as motorcyclists are adhering to the law, then they have every right to go about their business without being endangered.

As a motorcyclist, you are more exposed to severe injuries in a collision. If you have been hurt because of someone else’s actions, make sure you check out your legal options.