3 situations you should always be prepared for, plus a great resource for any safety-conscious Colorado motorcyclist
A motorcycle is smaller, harder to see, and the rider is exposed to violent forces in a crash. However, if you plan ahead, most common motorcycle accidents can be avoided. (And if you’ve already been in a motorcycle accident and think you may have a legal case, see our Guide to Colorado motorcycle lawsuits.)
Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Colorado.
Car turns left in front of you
Left turn accidents are the most common motorcycle accidents in Colorado and across the country. Usually, the car driver either fails to see you, or misjudges the distance as he turns in front of you.
How to avoid
A good motorcycle rider needs to think a step ahead of the car driver. With experience, you should develop an almost ‘sixth sense’ that will warn you of accident dangers so you can avoid them. Watch for signs that a driver may turn left; there may be a gap in traffic right in front of you, for example.
Hit gravel in a corner
You may be coming around a corner and suddenly see a patch of gravel. This hazard can cause a very serious wipe out.
How to avoid
Do not hit a blind corner too fast. You should ride at a speed where you will have time to react in the event of an emergency. A good rule on taking corners on motorcycles is ‘slow in, fast out.’
Car switches lanes into you
This happens often: You are riding in traffic when a car veers into your lane. It is very easy for motorcycles to be hidden in a car’s blind spot. And remember that car drivers are not programmed mentally to look for motorcycles.
How to avoid
Never sit in a car’s blind spot any longer than necessary. If you cannot see the driver’s eyes in their side mirror, they cannot see you.
Staying safe on a motorcycle involves defensive driving and proactive thinking. You can practice these vital, life-saving skills by taking a Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course in Colorado – find a certified trainer near you.