How important is visibility for motorcyclists?

Being seen is crucial to your safety as a motorcyclist. Unfortunately, you face an uphill battle as “I didn’t see them”, is one of the most common explanations drivers give for crashing into motorcyclists.

There is truth to what these drivers say. A phenomenon called inattentional blindness can cause drivers to fail to see motorcyclists who are in their field of vision. Another big problem is distraction. It’s much harder for a driver to see you if they are staring at their phone, turning around to talk to their kids or distracted in any other way.

What can you do to improve the chance of being seen?

The following tips can increase the chance drivers spot you:

  • Add some color: Your helmet is the highest part of you and the motorcycle, so has the best chance of being spotted. Choosing a more noticeable color can go a long way. A bright jacket or light-colored bike can also help and reflective strips are a big aid at night.
  • Good lights: Take a look at your lights, and consider if there are ways to legally improve them. While you don’t want to blind drivers, it’s worth maximizing this opportunity for others to see you. Switch them on during the daytime, too.
  • Positioning: Think about where you position yourself. Being in the middle of your lane makes you more visible than being to the side. Try to avoid positions where you will be hidden from view by a large vehicle.
  • Movement: Sometimes it pays to wiggle a little, such as if you are unsure whether a driver waiting to pull out has seen you. The movement can help catch their eye.

While those tips can help, there is no way to guarantee a driver will notice you and react accordingly. If one injures you, it’s important to understand how to hold them responsible.

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