Spring is here, which means you’ll likely see more motorcycles on the road. And the key word
here is “see.” People driving cars and trucks often fail to notice the motorcyclists around them,
partly because they’re not accustomed to looking for them.

It’s obvious yet bears repeating: Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than car and truck
drivers and passengers. Not only are there many more cars and trucks on the road, but there’s
no such thing as a “fender bender” for a motorcyclist. Even a low-speed collision can seriously
injure a rider, not to mention total the bike, so it’s important to always give motorcycles extra
space and an extra look.

Below are six tips to help you safely share the road with motorcyclists.

Objects in mirror. The object in your mirror may be closer than it appears — especially if it’s a
motorcycle. Due to its size, it can be harder to determine how close a motorcycle is and how
fast it’s moving. When turning into traffic, always estimate a bike to be closer than it appears to
avoid forcing a rider to quickly hit the brakes — or worse.

Watch those left turns. One of the most common motorcycle accidents involves a car making a
left turn directly in front of a bike at an intersection. Give yourself an extra moment to look
specifically for motorcycles coming toward you when turning into traffic.

Double-check your blind spot. Carefully checking your blind spot before changing lanes is
always a good idea. When it comes to motorcycles, it’s critical. A bike can be easily obscured in
the blind spot, hidden behind your car’s roof pillars, or blend in with cars in other lanes, so
make a habit of checking carefully before changing lanes. Plus, always use your turn signal.

Don’t tailgate. This is another general rule for all drivers, but it’s especially important when
following a motorcycle. Be aware that many riders decrease speed by downshifting or easing
off the throttle, so you won’t see any brake lights even though they are slowing down. Following at least three seconds behind the bike should give you enough time and space to safely slow down or stop when necessary.

Stay in your lane. Obviously, motorcycles don’t take up an entire lane the way cars or trucks do.
But that doesn’t mean you can cozy up and share a lane with a bike. Just because the rider may
be hugging one side of the lane doesn’t mean you can move into that space. Riders are likely
doing this to avoid debris, oil on the road, or a pothole, so a bit of mild swerving within the lane
can be expected. Do not crowd into the lane with a bike.

Think about motorcycles. Making a habit of always checking for bikes when you drive will make
the above tips second nature and make you a better driver. To personalize it, think about your
friends and family members who ride bikes and then drive as if they are on the road with you.
Motorcyclists — and everyone else — will thank you.