As a motorcyclist, not being seen is always going to be one of your biggest problems. Motorcycles are slimmer, shorter and lower than cars, making them harder to spot, particularly when hidden between other vehicles. On top of this, a phenomenon known as inattentional blindness means many drivers do not register motorcyclists.
Various safety campaigns have attempted to increase driver awareness of motorcyclists. Still, in so many motorcycle accidents, the driver’s excuse is they did not see the bike. As a motorcyclist, you have two choices. You can take the view that drivers should take more care and blame them when something happens. Or you can make it harder for them to miss you. The problem with laying all the responsibility on drivers is that you may not be alive to blame them if one does crash into you.
One of the most cost-effective and straightforward measures you can take is to upgrade your headlights. You can upgrade the bulbs, or you can upgrade the whole light. There are various light assemblies available. Motorcycle dealers, online stores and forums can offer advice on suitable options available for your bike. Not only will stronger lighting help drivers see you, but it will help you to see obstacles such as potholes or debris.
Another simple way to make your lights more effective is to keep them turned on during the daytime. Saving them for darkness is a missed opportunity. They are there, so why not use them all the time?
Should a driver hit you, despite your upgraded lights, you will need to seek legal help. Having excellent lighting makes it harder for someone to claim they did not see you if you end up taking your personal injury case to court.
