Motorcycle accidents are a problem in every state, but especially in Missouri. According to a 2022 news report by KY3, Missouri ranks as the 7th-worst state in the U.S. for deaths in motorcycle wrecks. Riders know there is always a chance that an inattentive or thoughtless car, truck or SUV driver will do something to put the rider in harm’s way. And even the most experienced and skilled rider might not be able to avoid the ensuing crash.
Drivers who respect the health and safety of motorcycle riders can take fairly simple and common-sense steps on the road to reduce the risk of a wreck. Here are four tips that experts recommend.
- Stay alert and look out when merging on the highway or changing lanes. Check your blind spots.
- Turn on your headlights at night and in bad weather.
- Maintain a safe following distance from motorcycles. The standard highway distance is three seconds — meaning that three seconds should pass between when the bike passes a stationary object (like a street light) and your vehicle does.
- Use your turn signals before turning right or left. Double-check that your path is clear before turning.
Some accidents are just that — accidents that happen despite everyone involved acting reasonably cautiously. Often though, riders are the victims of a driver’s dangerous negligence. Too many motorists fail to check for smaller vehicles like motorcycles. They take needless chances like turning left as a rider approaches. The result can be a tragedy or a lifetime of painful disability — all of which could have been avoided.