Motorcycle safety in Autumn – UK - Car Driver Advice

Dear resident

In autumn, UK car drivers must remain especially aware of motorcyclists due to reduced visibility from low sun, longer periods of darkness and rain, increased road hazards like leaves, damp, and potential frost. Drivers should anticipate motorcycles' small profiles, make longer checks at junctions, scan blind spots, and remember they are difficult to judge in traffic. Campaigns like THINK! – Road safety and Take Another Look encourage drivers to be more empathetic and observant to reduce the disproportionate risk to motorcyclists. 

Key Considerations for Autumn.

Reduced Visibility:

Low-angled sunlight can cause glare and dazzle, making it hard for drivers to see motorcyclists. 

Darker Conditions:

Shorter days and longer periods of darkness mean that both vehicles and motorcyclists are harder to see. 

Hazardous Road Conditions:

Leaves, moisture, dampness, and frost on the road create slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of loss of control for both drivers and riders. 

What Drivers Should Do

Look Twice at Junctions:

Before emerging from a junction or turning, take an extra moment to scan for motorcyclists, as they are difficult to judge approaching intersections. 

Check Blind Spots:

Due to their small size, motorcyclists can easily slip into car drivers' blind spots, so drivers should check mirrors and blind spots thoroughly before changing lanes. 

Be Aware of Filtering:

Motorcyclists are permitted to filter past slower-moving traffic. If you see a motorcycle coming up, make space for them. 

Anticipate and Be Patient:

Remember that motorcyclists are vulnerable road users. Allow extra time to assess their position and speed, especially at junctions. 

Clean Your Windscreen:

A clean windscreen improves visibility, especially during periods of glare. 

Use Headlights:

Use your dipped headlights to make your vehicle more visible to others, including motorcyclists. 

Why Awareness is Crucial

Small Size:

Motorcycles present a narrow, detailed image that can be difficult for the brain to process quickly, especially against cluttered backgrounds. 

Higher Risk:

Motorcyclists are vulnerable to serious injury in an accident, with drivers' lack of awareness being a frequent cause of crashes. 

Driver Empathy:

Campaigns like THINK! aim to foster empathy between car drivers and motorcyclists, encouraging drivers to see the person on the bike.

Motorcycling – THINK!