Delaware is a prime location for motorcycle riders with its beautiful sights and pleasant weather. However, with the increase in motorcycles comes the potential for increased accidents. According to the Delaware State Police, 360 motorcycle accidents happened in 2021. If you drive in Delaware, you must take extra precautions to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Driving alongside motorcyclists is not difficult, but it does require attentiveness and respect for all road users. Understanding how to share the road can help prevent accidents and maintain safety for all.
Check your blind spots
The compact size of motorcycles makes them easy to miss in your blind spots. Regularly checking these areas while you drive is vital. Always make it a point to check your blind spots before changing lanes or turning.
Use your signals
Signaling your intentions helps other road users anticipate your moves. Whether you plan to change lanes or make a turn, always use your signals. This simple act can give a motorcyclist enough time to adjust their position or speed to avoid a potential collision.
Keep a safe distance
Keeping a safe distance from motorcycles gives both you and the motorcyclist ample time to react to unexpected situations. Delaware law recommends maintaining a three-to-four-second following distance. This buffer allows for plenty of time and space to react if a motorcyclist slows down or stops abruptly.
Be cautious at intersections
Most motorcycle-related accidents occur at intersections. Therefore, exercise extra caution in these areas. Look twice before proceeding, as motorcycles can easily blend into the background due to their size.
Respect the rights of motorcyclists
Motorcyclists have the same rights on the road as drivers of passenger vehicles. Treat motorcyclists with the same respect you would give to other drivers. This mutual respect can lead to safer roads for all users.
Being attentive and respectful while driving in Delaware can significantly reduce the chances of hitting a motorcyclist. Remember, safety on the road is a shared responsibility. The more careful you are, the safer the roads will be for everyone.