Biker dies in Fourways accident

Car drivers – look out for Motorcyclists

Car drivers’ behaviour and awareness of motorcyclists often contribute to motorcycle injuries and fatalities. Drivers are encouraged to look out for motorcyclists. Drivers to must be aware of the dangers of not checking their blind spot when changing lanes!

Check for bikes when changing lanes - Motorcyclists might pass you on either side - Double-check whether you're turning left or right.

Check for bikes when turning - Parked cars or large vehicles can obstruct your view of a motorcyclist.

Remember your blind spot

Motorcyclists be aware of other road users

Make eye contact - Never assume others see you. Always try to make eye contact with drivers who may be about to pull into your path.

Read “vehicle language” Even when drivers, cyclists and pedestrians do see you approaching, they often misjudge your distance and speed. Don’t rely on them.

Watch out for left-turning vehicles at intersections -Getting hit by an oncoming vehicle that’s turning left is the most common type of motorcycle crash.

Check behind when turning left from a highway - Watch your mirrors and make sure you have plenty of space behind. The drivers behind might not slow down for you.

Look out for hazardous road conditions - Wet roads, fluid spills, sand, gravel, highway sealant, railroad tracks, potholes and other road-surface hazards reduce your traction. They cause many falls.

Take it easy on the curves - Many crashes happen there. You might overshoot the road or cross the centre line and get hit by oncoming traffic. Watch the road ahead, slow down and choose the correct lane position-before entering a curve.

Wear a good helmet - Helmets prevent head injuries in 67 per cent of crashes and deaths in 29 per cent. Make sure your helmet has a sticker showing that it meets current safety standards. Avoid buying a used helmet. It may have been in a crash, and the damage may not be obvious.

Wear protective clothing designed for motorcycle riders - It can provide some protection during a crash, as well as shield you from the weather and flying debris. Keeping warm and dry will help you stay alert and maintain coordination. Wear your riding gear in layers so you can adjust to changing conditions. Jeans give little protection. Never ride in lightweight pants or shorts.

Protect your eyes and face - Constant wind can make your eyes water, preventing you from spotting hazards. Flying insects, dust and debris can hurt your eyes and face. The best protection is a full-face helmet with a built-in face shield.

Be visible - Wear bright, reflective clothing. Add extra reflective material to it or wear a reflective vest. Likewise, buy a bright-coloured helmet and stick reflective tape to the back and sides. Always keep your headlight on. Ride in the lane position where other drivers can easily see you and you’ve got room to move. Avoid all other vehicles’ blind spots.

Message from MyFourways facebook page

Elton van Wyk writes:

RIP Rider!
I travel this road every day of my life, that there has not been more accidents like these, is a Miracle from God. TAXI's literally REGULATE this section and William Nicol N1 Crossing from Bryanston - it is BEYOND BELIEF!

They should be BANNED on this section of these extremely busy intersections of Fourways & Bryanston. I know this specific accident had no "kwela" involved...but may Our Lord protect our Bikers that it will ever happen.

Message from MyFourways facebook page

Robyn Gwilt writes:

Love and light... we drove past this .... having just left the scene of ANOTHER bike accident on Leslie Avenue at about 5.30pm. I think this was the 4th accident I saw today