Most people assume that driving is the same no matter what kind of vehicle you’re using. You start, accelerate and stop. You brake when you need to, and you maneuver to stay in your lane.
What you should know is that there are some differences between motorcyclists and other drivers. Their behaviors and the way the motorcycle actually works has an impact on how they get from point A to point B. Here’s what you should know about the differences in driving for motorcyclists.
- They often appear to be moving more slowly than they are
Since motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, the speed at which they’re traveling isn’t always going to appear as quick as it is. This is why many drivers decide to pull out in front of motorcyclists and into their paths. The drivers may think they have enough time to get across the lane, but the reality is that the motorcyclist is moving faster than they thought.
- Motorcyclists take up the lane on purpose
If you have ever seen a single motorcyclist driving back and forth within their lane, this is done on purpose. Moving back and forth makes it more likely that others will pay attention to the motorcyclist. It also helps the motorcyclist take control of the lane, so others don’t attempt to pass too closely.
- Motorcyclists may brake differently than other drivers
Motorcycles don’t always brake the same way as other vehicles. Motorcyclists have the option to roll off the throttle or downshift instead of using their brakes, so their brake lights may not always turn on. Motorcyclists also tend to decelerate more quickly than other vehicles, so drivers should always leave a significant amount of braking room around motorcyclists. Leaving between three and four seconds of space more than you would for another vehicle will help you avoid a crash with a motorcyclist.
Motorcyclists may have different driving techniques or methods and have a vehicle that isn’t quite the same as a car, but they deserve the same respect on the road. If someone on a motorcyclist is hit by another driver and involved in an auto accident, they can take action to hold the driver responsible.