The Heightened Risk for Motorcyclists at Arvada Intersections
Motorcyclists face greater dangers than other motorists due to their lack of protection in an accident. Drivers of passenger vehicles and trucks are encased by the vehicle while motorcyclists, even with helmets and protective gear, are exposed and far more vulnerable.
Intersections are a prime point for accidents, and in Arvada and throughout Colorado, motorcyclists are at greater risk when passing through them.
Visibility Issues
One of the prime reasons that motorcyclists get into accidents at intersections is that they are less visible to other drivers. A motorcycle is smaller in size, and it can be more difficult to spot, even for a driver who is following the rules of the road. Since motorcycles can easily be missed in a vehicle’s blind spot, a driver may change lanes or pull out in front of an oncoming motorcyclist, causing a horrific crash.
Driver Error
Driver errors are among the top reasons why accidents happen on the road. Motorcyclists are in greater danger when drivers are speeding, distracted, or fail to yield the right of way at an Arvada intersection.
Left Turn Dangers
Left turns are a notoriously risky move for any driver to make. In fact, most multi-vehicle crashes occur when a car turns left into the path of a motorcyclist. The left-turning driver may not see the motorcyclist and think they have a clear shot through the intersection. The motorcyclist may not be able to stop in time, and in turn, none of the other vehicles traveling in the same direction may be able to stop in time.
Lack of Protection
As mentioned, motorcyclists have very little in the way of physical protection should they get into an accident. Helmets can help protect riders from serious head injuries, but they don’t stop them all. Fatalities are common in motorcycle accidents since there is little to shield a motorcyclist from harm, even when the collision occurs at a lower speed.
Heavier Traffic
Arvada has grown over the years, and it’s easy to see how this pleasant place has attracted more residents. The downside of this growth is that traffic volumes have also increased. By sheer numbers, the risks have risen for motorcyclists in Arvada simply because there are more drivers on the road, making them most vulnerable in congested areas and intersections.
Safety Measures and Tips for Motorists and Motorcyclists
Whether you drive a motor vehicle or a motorcycle, it is important for everyone to be aware of the dangers at Arvada intersections. These tips can help you save lives in the Arvada community.
Tips for Motorists
Nothing is more important than getting to your destination safely. Slow down and look twice, keeping a keen eye out for motorcycles. By taking a second look when changing lanes or getting ready to turn at an intersection, you can prevent an accident.
Avoiding distractions is always advised, as failure to pay attention is the top reason for most road accidents. If you see a motorcycle, allow more space when following. Something beyond your control, such as a pothole, could cause the motorcyclist to crash, and by leaving room for them, you’ll be able to stop in time. Anticipating hazards like these is the best way to help motorcycle riders in Arvada.
Tips for Motorcyclists
Even if you are an experienced motorcyclist, it never hurts to take an additional safety course. You can get this endorsement on your license and learn more ways to stay safe while enjoying your motorcycle ride.
Wearing protective gear is mandatory for anyone on a motorcycle who is under the age of 18. It might not be required if you are over 18, but it is a smart way to protect yourself. Choose a DOT-approved helmet, and remember that eye protection, either through goggles, a visor, or safety glasses, is mandatory for everyone riding.
Follow the rules of the road, including speed limits, and know that when the weather is foul, follwoing the speed limit may be too fast. Staying sober is always the way to ride, and can help you avoid trouble with the law. Another law to keep in mind is that Colorado allows lane filtering only when traffic is completely stopped and at 15 mph or less. Never ride between moving vehicles to stay safe.
If you get into a motorcycle crash, protect your legal rights by immediately contacting an Arvada motorcycle accident lawyer. Insurers will try to place the blame on motorcyclists, even when they weren’t the one to cause the crash, and you don’t want to have your compensation reduced.
Image source: https://pixabay.com/photos/motorcycle-accident-road-traffic-1041070/