Helping Prevent Motorcycle Accidents During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and across Indiana—from downtown Indianapolis to the highways around Fort Wayne—riders are returning in full force. With warmer weather comes increased risk. In 2023 alone, Indiana saw more than 2,800 motorcycle accidents, resulting in 136 lives lost, according to state data.
At Boughter Sinak, LLC, our Indiana motorcycle accident lawyers have seen firsthand how devastating crashes involving riders and other vehicles can be. That’s why we’re calling on Indiana drivers to stay alert, stay respectful, and share the road with motorcyclists this spring and summer. The following reminders aren’t just helpful—they could save someone’s life.
1. Always Look Twice Before Turning or Changing Lanes
Motorcycles are easy to miss. They’re smaller, faster, and often hidden in blind spots or overlooked at intersections. Many fatal crashes occur when drivers make a left-hand turn into the path of an oncoming rider.
Take that extra second before changing lanes or turning left. Check mirrors. Turn your head. Signal every time. It sounds basic, but it’s one of the most effective ways to avoid a deadly mistake.
2. Leave More Room Behind Motorcycles
Tailgating is dangerous in any situation, but it’s particularly risky when following a motorcycle. Riders often downshift instead of braking, meaning their brake lights may not activate. They may also need to swerve quickly to avoid road hazards.
Give riders space—at least 3 seconds of following distance. In rain or low visibility, increase that gap. Riders have fewer protections in a crash, and a little space can mean the difference between a close call and a serious injury.
3. Take Extra Care at Intersections
Intersections are where some of the worst motorcycle crashes happen. Drivers misjudge a bike’s speed, fail to yield, or simply don’t see the rider until it’s too late.
Before making a left turn, pause and check again. Never assume a motorcycle is far away just because it looks small. If you’re approaching a stop sign or a traffic signal, keep an eye out for riders who may have the right-of-way.
4. Stay Focused and Eliminate Distractions
Distracted driving is a major cause of crashes, and motorcycle riders are often the victims. Even a momentary glance at your phone, GPS, or radio can be all it takes to miss a rider in your path.
Indiana law requires hands-free phone use, but legal compliance isn’t the only goal. Keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and your mind on what’s ahead. Anything less puts others in danger.
5. Remember That Motorcycles Are Entitled to a Full Lane
Motorcyclists are not required to “scoot over” and share their lane with cars. Indiana law gives them the same right to a full lane as any other motorist.
Don’t crowd them. Don’t attempt to pass them in the same lane. Treat a motorcycle like you would a passenger car and respect its space on the road.
6. Adjust Your Driving in Poor Weather
Rain, fog, and bright sunlight can reduce visibility, and that makes it even harder to spot a motorcycle. Bad weather also limits a rider’s ability to stop, turn, or avoid hazards.
Slow down, increase your following distance, and use your headlights. If you see a motorcyclist taking things slow, be patient. They’re protecting themselves—and you.
7. Check for Motorcyclists Before Opening Your Door
“Dooring” crashes are a real hazard in cities like Indianapolis. A parked driver swings open their door into traffic, striking a rider who has no time to react.
Use the “Dutch Reach”—open your door with your far hand so you naturally turn and check for traffic. Always check your mirrors and look over your shoulder. Encourage passengers to do the same before stepping out.
When a Motorcycle Crash Happens, You Need a Lawyer Who Rides for You
Even when riders do everything right, they can still be hit by a careless or distracted driver. The results are often life-changing—broken bones, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, or worse.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a crash, you need more than just an insurance claim. You need someone who knows how to take on the system and fight for full compensation. The Fort Wayne motorcycle accident attorneys at Boughter Sinak, LLC have secured major results for riders across Indiana, including a $1.4 million recovery in one motorcycle accident case.
Don’t let the insurance company downplay your injuries or shift the blame. Give us a call at 420-HURT or contact us online for a free case evaluation. There are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs, and you pay nothing unless we win.
“If you have been injured, these guys are the law firm you want on your side.” – Val K., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐