Driver overtaking on the wrong side of road and hitting a motorcyclist

Sometimes, accidents simply cannot be avoided, and even those that can be avoided are inevitable through basic human error.

We’re far from perfect…

This is why we have the Highway Code; a set of rules and principles to help guide us to use the highways safely and minimise accidents and injuries. There is no excuse for failing to abide by the rules of the road, and all users should be familiar with the guidance and dangers for overtaking specifically.

Especially when there may be motorcyclists around…

Highway Code Rules

Cyclists and drivers both have obligations when they’re on the roads. These rules and obligations are often found in the Highway Code.

Rule 160 of the Highway Code states that road users should “be aware of other road users, especially cycles and motorcycles who may be filtering through traffic”. Rule 211 states that drivers should “look out for cyclists or motorcyclists on the inside of the traffic”.

But the key one to reflect the topic of this blog is in Rule 167 that states:

“…do not overtake where you might come into conflict with other road users. For example, approaching or at a road junction on either side of the road.”

The obvious risk of this is that, where an oncoming vehicle/motorcycle may be there, the person overtaking may not be able to see them and may consequently hit them; causing injury or death. This is a common type of accident; it occurs a lot where drivers get impatient and decide to overtake on the other side of the road which leaves the motorcyclist very little time to brake or change direction.

Riders are often harder to see

The other key thing is the simple fact that riders are often harder to spot. A driver may clearly see there are no cars on the opposing side of the highway when they choose to initiate the overtaking manoeuvre, but a far smaller biker may not be noticed.

There is no excuse for missing a motorcyclist; drivers have to take more care and always be watchful for them.

If all road users perfectly abided by the Highway Code, I’m sure we could avoid overtaking accidents with ease. The Highway Code contains a wealth of knowledge for road users. If you’re unsure what to do on the road, always check – it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Catastrophic injuries

Injuries from a head-on collision caused by a vehicle overtaking and hitting a biker on the wrong side of the road can be catastrophic. Even a proper helmet and clothing may not fully prevent the damage that can be caused by a head-on smash.

There are rules surrounding what protective gear a motorcyclist should wear. By law, motorcyclists (riding mopeds, motorcycles or quad-bikes) must wear a safety helmet as a minimum. Although there are no laws surrounding other clothing, it’s highly recommended that other protective clothing be used as it could save a rider’s life. Additional protection for shoulders, back, elbows, knees and hips are the sorts of items that can be very valuable indeed.