In relationships, butterflies and honeymoon stages don’t last forever. To keep a relationship going strong, it takes intentionality from both parties. Believe it or not, this also goes for the relationship between cars and motorcycles. To keep drivers and riders safe, it’s key to follow certain guidelines. Here are a few dating principles that apply to sharing the road.
Any good relationship is built upon a foundation of clear communication. Drivers should practice this by using turn signals to give motorcycles time to adjust their distance and speed.
Because communication is a two-way street, drivers should take time to understand what motorcycles are saying, too. Motorcyclists should always use turn signals, but they also have their own set of hand signals for turning, stopping, and even pointing out road hazards.
Physical touch is not a motorcycle’s love language. No one wants to feel suffocated by a relationship, and this is especially true for a motorcyclist. It’s important for both riders and drivers to give each other plenty of room. Cars take longer to stop than motorcycles, and motorcyclists run the risk of wiping out if they stop too abruptly. Maintaining a safe following distance and staying in your own lane gives everyone the needed space for a smoother, safer ride.
Being truly seen makes for relationship and road-sharing bliss. Motorcycles are smaller and quicker than other vehicles, which makes them harder to see, especially at night or through the glare of the sun. Drivers should check their blind spots manually before switching lanes and always take a second glance before turning. Riders can do their part by avoiding riding in a vehicle’s blind spot, wearing reflective clothing and keeping their headlights on, even during the day.
Everyone wants to feel secure in a relationship. Obeying traffic laws and practicing defensive driving protects your fellow drivers and riders, creating a more stable, more secure road rapport. For riders, feeling secure and safe means always wearing the right safety gear, including a helmet.
Whether you’re deep in a romance or driving your daily commute, remembering these principles will not only improve your love life but will also protect the lives of those you share the road with.
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