A blind spot is an area around a vehicle where the driver cannot directly see. The obstruction can be caused by a vehicle’s bodywork, head restraints or window pillars. It can also be caused by the rear-view and side-view mirrors’ angles, which only allow a limited view of the surroundings. All vehicles, including motorcycles, have blind spots. Usually, the larger the car, the bigger their blind spots. Therefore, as a motorcyclist, you should be wary of your surroundings and avoid these blind spots.
What should you do?
For motorcyclists, below are some safety tips that may help avoid blind spot accidents.
- Learn more about other vehicles’ blind That way, you will be able to avoid them whenever possible.
- Ride in front or behind a vehicle instead of riding beside it. Only ride beside a car when overtaking, and ensure you complete a pass safely before going in front of the car.
- Maintain some distance between you and other vehicles in case of a sudden stop. Avoid tailgating at all costs.
- Improve your visibility by wearing bright or reflective clothing. Ensure your headlights are in good condition since they can also increase your visibility, especially at night.
- Carry out routine maintenance of your bike. An immediate reaction can avoid some blind spot accidents. It will not be possible to, say, make a quick stop with faulty brakes. Regular maintenance of your bike could avert a potential disaster.
Were you involved in a motorcycle accident?
If you have been involved in a blind spot accident involving another motorist, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Just because the other motorist did not see you in the blind spot does not remove their liability. All motorists must be aware of other road users at all times, with or without blind spots.
As such, knowing the steps to take following an accident will go a long way in protecting your legal rights as you pursue the justice you deserve.
