Riding a motorcycle is an experience like no other. The feel of the open road, the power of the engine, and the maneuverability of a bike make motorcycling appealing to many. However, motorcycles also come with enhanced risks compared to driving a car. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the roads and motorcycle crashes can lead to serious injuries or even death.
In Utah, 37 motorcyclists lost their lives in 2021. Negligent driving behaviors are a major contributing factor in many motorcycle crashes. As a motorcyclist, being able to identify negligent driving can help you ride more defensively and potentially avoid accidents.
Here are some common negligent driving behaviors to watch out for that often lead to motorcycle crashes in Utah:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is an epidemic on our roads today. Drivers distracted by their cell phones, GPS systems, passengers, or even eating and grooming while driving are a major threat to motorcyclists. A distracted driver may drift into your lane or make an unsafe turn in front of you.
In Utah, distracted driving was linked to over 4,900 crashes in 2020. Motorcyclists must keep their eyes open for drivers not paying full attention and exhibiting unsafe driving behaviors like varying speed, weaving, or delayed reactions to traffic signals and signs. Maintain safe distances around distracted drivers and be prepared to take evasive action.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving behaviors like speeding, tailgating, unsafe lane changes, and road rage greatly increase motorcycle crash risks. Aggressive drivers lack patience and judgment, follow too closely, make erratic lane maneuvers, and fail to signal properly.
Utah has seen increasing aggressive driving behaviors in recent years as traffic levels rise. As a motorcyclist, be wary of drivers speeding up behind you, cutting you off, or acting angrily towards you. Avoid confronting aggressive drivers, do not engage in road rage yourself, and safely separate yourself from dangerous vehicles.
Failure to Yield Right-of-Way
Drivers who fail to properly yield the right-of-way to motorcyclists account for many motorcycle crashes in Utah. This includes drivers cutting off motorcycles, turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle, or pulling out of a stop sign or driveway into the path of a motorcycle.
As a motorcyclist, be vigilant when approaching intersections or driveways. Make eye contact with other drivers, use caution when passing stopped vehicles that may pull out suddenly, and cover your brakes in intersections in case an oncoming car makes a left turn in front of you illegally.
Speeding
Higher speeds leave all drivers with less time to react and stop in an emergency. But excessive speeding is an even greater danger to motorcyclists, amplifying the impact forces in a crash. Speeding also reduces a driver’s ability to control their vehicle and respond to changing road conditions.
Utah’s high-speed rural highways see a disproportionate number of speed-related motorcycle crashes. Ride defensively around speeding drivers, do not attempt to match their velocity, and be prepared for sudden maneuvers from vehicles traveling too fast. Also, make sure to always wear a helmet as this will offer you some protection in a high-speed crash.
Drunk Driving
Despite strict drunk driving laws, driving under the influence remains a problem on Utah’s roads. Intoxicated drivers have delayed reactions, reduced coordination, and impaired judgment. These alcohol-induced effects significantly increase the chances of a driver causing a collision with a motorcycle, especially during the evenings and on weekends.
It’s vital to stay alert for the signs of intoxicated drivers like swerving, inappropriate braking, wide turns, and variability in speed. Give drunk drivers a wide berth and put as much distance between yourself and their vehicle as possible. Also, whenever possible, avoid riding late at night when drunk driving rates are highest.
Fatigued Driving
Driver fatigue is an often overlooked but hazardous condition. Drowsy drivers may have slow reaction times, reduced awareness, and limited ability to control their vehicle. Fatigued driving is especially risky late at night or during long road trips. It’s also unfortunately common among truck and delivery drivers. A fatigued motorist could drift into your lane or fail to notice your motorcycle in time.
Watch for signs of fatigued drivers like inconsistent speeds, yawning, eyes closing, weaving, and sudden corrective jerks of the steering wheel. If you suspect a driver near you is dangerously tired, fall back and pass carefully when safe to do so. Staying alert also means making sure you yourself do not ride when overly fatigued.
Improper Lane Changes
Frequent, sudden lane changes increase the chances of a collision with a motorcyclist nearby. Drivers may change lanes without properly checking blind spots or signaling. They may cut off a motorcyclist while attempting to quickly switch lanes in heavy traffic. Improper lane changes often lead to dangerous sideswipe crashes.
When lanes are crowded, anticipate improper maneuvers from surrounding vehicles. Ensure your motorcycle is visible in side mirrors and stay out of blind spots. Watch turn signals and look for steering wheel movements from other drivers. Always have an escape route in case a sudden, unsafe lane change occurs near you.
By staying vigilant and reactive, motorcyclists can often recognize dangerous driving behaviors before an actual collision occurs. While you can’t prevent all negligent driving, heightened awareness and defensive riding can help reduce crash risks. Consider taking an advanced motorcycle safety course to sharpen your hazard perception skills even further.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle crash caused by a negligent driver in Utah, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Monge & Associates for a free consultation on your case. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Utah, South Carolina, and Washington, our lawyers have assisted countless motorcycle crash victims recover damages for injuries, lost wages, motorcycle repair/replacement costs, and other losses. We deal directly with insurance companies to help secure full and fair compensation you deserve.
Don’t delay in seeking legal help after a motorcycle accident – call our office today on (888) 477-0597.