The greatest danger for scooters is not being seen by other motorists. Research has shown that the most alert and attentive drivers of cars and trucks can overlook motorcyclists because they are not expecting to see the smaller scooter in the midst of other traffic. Not seeing scooters in traffic is usually chalked up to human error, but in all actuality, is how the eye and the brain work together.
Research shows that humans have very limited information processing abilities that must rely on memory, perception, and attention. In the event there is a situation where the situation begins to exceed these limitations, it is chalked up to human error. In all actuality, the situation is quite often responsible for the accident rather than the response that the driver provides. Therefore, it is the responsibility of a safe cyclist to make sure he or she is much more visible in traffic.
Here are some techniques that have been proven effective in staying visible while riding your scooter:
●Use your turn signals. Turn signals are extremely important so you can let other motorists be aware of your intended direction of travel. Prevent confusion by making sure your signal is turned off after you have made your move.
● Use your headlights. Most, if not all scooters that are intended for sale in the United States will have an headlight, which can help in darker conditions. You can go a step farther and turn on your high beams during the day to make yourself more visible during the day.
●Make better use of brake lights. Flash your brake lights by tapping them. Do this a few times before decelerating. Lightweight scooters are going to slow down or stop much faster than a larger vehicle. You should give cars and trucks more warning so they will have time to slow down.
●Consider using light modulators. Modulators can make your headlight flash from dim to bright several times a minute, bringing much more attention to your bike. Modulators can also be used on tail lights as well, causing them to constantly flash to get and keep the attention of drivers.
●Dress to be seen. Brightly colored scooter gear will keep the attention of drivers. Wear a helmet (most states require them) that is yellow, red, orange, bright green, or even white. Flashy helmet designs also get attention. Wear a brightly jacket or vest, also in those colors. Darker colors, such as the traditional black or navy are not going to be as readily seen by other drivers.
●Reflective tape. If you ride at night, add some reflective tape to your bike and your clothing. Place reflective tape on your helmet, your jacket or vests, and even on your boots or pants. Place it strategically on your scooter as well, such as on the wheel rims or in areas that protrude farther than the lights, such as the fenders.
●Make sure you position yourself in the lane where you are going to be seen. Everyone will end up in a blind spot at one time or another, but don’t hang out there. Move past that area as quickly as possible then position yourself in a spot where you are going to be seen by other cyclists and larger vehicles.
●Proceed with caution, and use defensive driving techniques when necessary. As you go through intersections, use extreme caution and watch for other drivers. Be ready to take evasive action to avoid an accident.
Staying visible is an important aspect of scooter safety. Make sure you are going to be seen by other motorists and have a plan in place to practice defensive and evasive driving measures when necessary.
There are many effective techniques that will make you be more visible by other drivers, so take heed to as many measures as possible to ensure your safe arrival at your destination.
This article was written by Personal Injury Help, an organization that provides information about personal injury cases* and helps connect injured people with attorneys. To find out more, please head to personalinjury-law.com or reach out to them at help@personalinjury-law.org.
*This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice or opinion.