Motorcyclists represent less than 1% of road traffic but account for 17% of deaths and serious injuries.
Here are some situations for you to be aware of so that you do not inadvertently put a motorcyclist at risk.
At Junctions:
- When coming out from a side road, be careful if there are parked cars or large vehicles obstructing your view of a motorcyclist.
- Before turning left, make sure a motorcyclist isn't on your inside, and before turning right, make sure a motorcyclist isn't on your outside.
- Give motorcyclists room at roundabouts.
- Don't squeeze motorcyclists' space at traffic lights. It can make them accelerate faster to get a lane.
When Overtaking:
- Give motorcyclists as much room as you would a car. They might need it to avoid - a pothole, a manhole cover, a loose surface.
- Don't overtake when you can't give enough room - for example, where the road narrows.
- Don't overtake when approaching a junction.
When Parked:
- After parking, check for motorcyclists before opening your door, and get passengers behind you to do the same.
- When pulling away from the kerb, look out for motorbikes. They have a narrower profile than other vehicles, which can make them harder to see.
Other Common Situations:
If you drive too close it can intimidate an inexperienced motorcyclist. They might make a mistake.
A motorcyclist might be in the lane you want to move into. Look out. Are they already there or approaching quickly?
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