Tips for Sharing the Road with Motorcycles

We encourage children to share their toys, share with their class, and share lessons learned. As they get older, they learn there are exceptions to the sharing rule—like toothbrushes, passwords, and account information. While the rules of sharing are not always clear, they are a little clearer when it comes to sharing the road with motorcycles.
April 17, 2025 | Auto
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5 Tips to Share the Road with Motorcycles

The weather is finally warmer, and in the northern states the salt is off the road. This means motorcycles are back in season, and the non-motorcycle riders need to be extra careful and share the road. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind as you drive this summer.
By: Lisa D.
Lisa D. has almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including over 15 years at Acuity. Before starting at Acuity, she obtained her P&C license and sold personal insurance. She keeps a pulse on industry trends while continuing to specialize in developing and updating personal auto insurance products. On top of that, Lisa has her Association in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Personal Insurance (API) designations. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys cooking, photography, and spending time with her family. The last two go hand in hand, as she takes pictures of her kids every day.

Author of Auto Focus

As the weather warms up, so does motorcycle season! With over 8.8 million registered motorcycles on U.S. roads, chances are you’ll be sharing the road with riders more often in the coming months.

Motorcycles bring a sense of freedom and adventure to the road—but they also come with unique challenges. Because they’re smaller and more agile, they can be easy to miss if you’re not paying close attention. It's always a good reminder to brush up on a few simple tips that help keep everyone—drivers and riders alike—safe.

Whether you're heading out for your daily commute or a weekend drive, these five tips will help you stay alert, be courteous, and confidently share the road.

 

  1. Give Motorcycles the Full Lane
    It may look like there's extra room, but motorcycles need the full width of a lane to safely navigate road conditions like potholes, debris, or gusty winds. Never try to share a lane—treat motorcycles just like any other vehicle when it comes to space.

  2. Double-Check Your Blind SpotsMotorcycles are smaller and can easily be hidden by your mirrors or pillars. Before changing lanes or merging, always take a second look. A quick extra glance can make a big difference.

  3. Keep a Safe Following Distance
    Motorcycles can stop more quickly than larger vehicles. To give yourself plenty of time to react, follow at a distance of at least 4 seconds behind a motorcycle. This also gives the rider space to maneuver around road hazards.

  4. Be Alert at Intersections
    Intersections are one of the most common places for motorcycle-related accidents, especially when turning left. Always take a moment to look for oncoming riders—it’s easy to misjudge their speed or overlook them entirely.

  5. Stay Focused Behind the Wheel
    Distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting your playlist can take your eyes off the road—and off motorcycles that may be nearby. Staying focused helps ensure you’re ready to respond to anything, including that motorcycle coming up in your side mirror.


Bonus Tip for Riders: Make Sure You’re Covered

Riders—before you hit the road this season, make sure your motorcycle insurance coverage is up to date and provides the protection you need. Accidents can happen, and the right policy can offer peace of mind whether you're on a weekend ride or your daily commute.

At Acuity Insurance, we understand the unique needs of motorcyclists. From liability and collision to comprehensive and accessory coverage, we’re here to help protect both you and your ride—so you can enjoy the open road with confidence.
 

Let’s Look Out for One Another

A little extra attention goes a long way. Sharing the road safely means being aware, patient, and respectful—no matter what vehicle you're driving. Together, we can make sure everyone gets where they’re going safely.

By: Lisa D.
Lisa D. has almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including over 15 years at Acuity. Before starting at Acuity, she obtained her P&C license and sold personal insurance. She keeps a pulse on industry trends while continuing to specialize in developing and updating personal auto insurance products. On top of that, Lisa has her Association in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Personal Insurance (API) designations. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys cooking, photography, and spending time with her family. The last two go hand in hand, as she takes pictures of her kids every day.

Author of Auto Focus