SAVANNAH, Ga. () — When you’re driving near motorcyclists, a little extra care can go a long way, especially in the rain.
Even though motorcycles make up a mere 2% of all registered vehicles in Georgia, their riders represent around 11% of traffic fatalities, highlighting the importance of awareness.
What the experts say
According to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GAHS), safe driving around motorcycles is a shared responsibility.
The Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP) advises that drivers should maintain a greater following distance, be extra vigilant at intersections, and thoroughly check their blind spots. Moreover, riders wearing bright-colored jackets or white helmets tend to be more visible.
Driver safety checklist: Follow this guide
- Check blind spots and mirrors twice: Motorcycles are smaller and can vanish from view quickly. Always double-check before changing lanes or turning.
- Maintain safe following distance: Leave at least a three to 4‑second buffer behind motorcyclists, especially since they may stop or slow suddenly.
- Use turn signals early and clearly: Clear communication helps riders anticipate your moves and react ahead of time.
- Respect riders’ lane position: Motorcyclists often shift position within their lane to avoid hazards or increase visibility. Don’t crowd them or attempt to share their lane.
- Be extra cautious at intersections: Intersections are high‑crash zones—particularly left‑turn accidents. Wait until the rider’s intentions are clear before proceeding.
- Adapt to road and weather conditions: Rain, wind, poor lighting, potholes, and debris can impact motorcycle stability. Drivers should compensate by slowing down and being ready to react.
- Stay focused and undistracted: Avoid phones, music or food. Inattention increases the risk, especially around vulnerable road users like bikers.
Stay Safe, Stay Aware, Share the Road
Motorcyclists are overrepresented in traffic fatalities. Simple driving habits, such as allowing ample space, signaling early, and checking blind spots, combined with rider practices like improving visibility and undergoing training, can significantly reduce risks.
