Editor's note: This post was originally published on July 16, 2021, and has been updated for accuracy and relevance.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are more than 8.6 million registered motorcycles in the U.S. as of 2023. Many Louisiana residents rely on motorcycles for commuting, recreation, and travel.
Despite their popularity, motorcycles are consistently involved in serious accidents. One of the leading causes is simple but deadly: many drivers fail to see them. Understanding why motorcycles are hard to see can help drivers stay alert and help motorcyclists protect themselves.
Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Blind Spots
Blind spots are one of the most dangerous hazards for motorcyclists. Because motorcycles are smaller than cars or trucks, they can easily hide in the area that a driver cannot see with their mirrors alone.
Drivers should always check their blind spots with a quick glance over the shoulder before changing lanes. Failing to do so is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Baton Rouge and across Louisiana.
Why Drivers Fail to Notice Motorcycles on Louisiana Roads
Another factor is visual recognition. Drivers are conditioned to look for larger vehicles like SUVs, sedans, or trucks. Because motorcycles are less common, drivers may not automatically register them, even when they are in plain sight.
This delayed recognition is sometimes called “inattentional blindness,” where the brain overlooks unexpected objects. For motorcyclists, this means they can be directly in a driver’s line of sight but still go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Why Motorcycle Size and Visibility Increase Crash Risks
The compact design of motorcycles makes them efficient and versatile, but also more difficult to spot. Their small profile allows them to slip behind larger vehicles, disappear into shadows, or blend into busy roadways. Road construction, traffic congestion, or poor weather can make motorcycles even harder to see.
For this reason, riders are encouraged to wear bright or reflective gear, use headlights even during the day, and avoid lingering in another vehicle’s blind spot. Meanwhile, drivers must remain vigilant and scan the road carefully.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable After a Motorcycle Accident
Every driver in Louisiana has a duty to operate their vehicle safely and watch for others on the road, including motorcyclists. When a driver fails to notice a motorcycle and causes a crash, they may be held liable for the rider’s injuries and losses.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord damage. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, a Baton Rouge motorcycle injury attorney can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Speak With a Baton Rouge Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycles may be harder to see, but that does not excuse careless driving. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Baton Rouge or anywhere in Louisiana, the team at MGM Injury Attorneys is here to help.
We fight for injured riders and their families to make sure negligent drivers are held accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights.
