As an automobile driver, navigating the streets alongside motorbikes—which are smaller and thus harder to see than a car—requires extra attention. This is especially true when you are also sharing the road with 18-wheelers, which further conceal motorcyclists from view. Find out how to stay safe and avoid accidents—and a potential personal injury claim—below.

Tips for Driving Safely Around Motorcycles

Motorcycles have the same rights on the road as cars. Allow any motorbike a full lane of travel. Also, leave at least two seconds’ worth of distance between your vehicle and any motorcycle in front of you. Since they are smaller, motorcycles can stop more abruptly. Rear-ending one might leave you liable in a personal injury claim.

When you change lanes, be sure to use turn signals, so any motorcycles behind you know your intent. Check your blind spots before you switch. After you've looked in your rear and side-view mirrors, do a shoulder check. Looking briefly over your shoulder gives you sight of the areas the mirrors can't reflect.

Tips for Driving Safely Around 18-Wheelers

Checking for blind spots becomes even more important when you're driving near 18-wheelers, whose bulk can conceal smaller motorcycles. Also, beware that these massive trucks have blind spots of their own—much larger than those of cars. To judge whether you're in a so-called “no zone,” check to see if you can see the truck driver's face in his mirrors. If you can’t, you’re in a blind spot.

When driving around trucks, also beware of their wider turning radius and longer stopping times. An 18-wheeler going 65 miles per hour needs the equivalent distance of two football fields to come to a complete stop. Stay back and allow extra space. 

If you are hurt in a car accident and considering undertaking a personal injury claim, Kidwell & Gallagher of Elko, NV, can help. Their friendly team will give you honest legal guidance. They have been helping clients get the justice they deserve after accidents for over 20 years and handle a wide range of workers’ compensation and personal injury claims. Learn more about their practice areas online. To meet with an attorney, call the law firm at (775) 738-1000.