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Why Should You Look for Motorcyclists When Turning Right?

Turning right might seem easy, but not checking for motorcyclists can lead to serious accidents. Bikers are some of the most at-risk people on the road. Many crashes happen when a driver turns right and doesn’t see a motorcycle coming. Whether you’re in a busy city or on quiet country roads, keeping an eye out for motorcyclists is super important for everyone's safety.

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Why Are Motorcyclists Hard to See?

Motorcycles are much smaller than cars, which makes them easy to miss, especially in blind spots. Other cars, road signs, and even parts of your own car can hide them from view.

Also, because they are smaller, motorcycles can look further away than they really are. This can trick drivers into thinking they have more time than they actually do. This mistake is a big reason for accidents when turning.

Common Right-Turn Accidents with Motorcyclists

Many accidents happen because a driver doesn’t see or misjudges how fast a motorcycle is coming. Here are some common situations:

  • Turning in front of a motorcycle: A driver thinks they can turn right without realizing how fast the bike is going.
  • Not checking blind spots: A biker might be coming in a lane that the driver can’t see in their mirrors.
  • Blocking a filtering motorcycle: In the UK, bikers can move through stopped or slow traffic. A driver turning right might not check and could hit a filtering bike.

The Lifesaver Look

Motorcyclists do a “lifesaver” shoulder check before changing lanes. Car drivers should get in the habit of doing something similar when turning right. Before you turn, take a moment to glance over your shoulder and check your mirrors for motorcycles. This small act of awareness can stop a serious crash.

Tips for Safer Right Turns

Here are some easy safety tips to help drivers avoid accidents with motorcyclists:

1. Check Your Mirrors and Blind Spots

Don’t just rely on mirrors; turn your head to check blind spots before turning.

2. Signal Early and Clearly

Make sure to signal your turn ahead of time. This helps motorcyclists know what you plan to do.

3. Judge Speed Correctly

Always assume a biker is going faster than they look. If unsure, wait and make sure it’s safe to turn.

4. Be Careful in Bad Weather

Rain and fog make it harder to see. Give motorcyclists more space and time.

5. Look Twice Before Moving

A quick second look could save a life. Always double-check for oncoming motorcycles before making your turn.

Why This Matters: Real-Life Impact

Not checking for motorcyclists when turning right can have big consequences. Bikers don’t have the safety of a car, and even a small crash can be very serious.

Statistics show that many motorcycle accidents happen when another vehicle turns in front of them. Most of these accidents could be avoided with better driver awareness.

Making it a habit to check for motorcyclists when turning right is super important. Bikers are vulnerable, and taking a few extra seconds can help keep everyone safe.

By regularly checking mirrors, looking for blind spots, and judging distances well, drivers can lower the chances of accidents. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and being alert to motorcyclists is a big step in keeping our roads safe for all.

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