LOOK OUT FOR THE LITTLE GUY.pdf - Acuity

Look Out for the Little Guy!
Whether it is a bicycle passing on your right at an intersection, the small car cruising in your blind spot,
or the motorcycle slowing down ahead, professional drivers need to be aware of the presence of small
vehicles on the road.
Following are some things for drivers of larger vehicles to consider when around smaller ones:
• Show the same respect for motorcycles and bicycles you would show other vehicles. They
have the same rights as you do.
• Do not tailgate a smaller vehicle. A small vehicle can stop more quickly than a large truck.
You run the risk of your truck running over a smaller vehicle from behind.
• Bikes and motorcycles are difficult to see at night. It is difficult to calculate your distance from
a bike based on its reflectors or headlights. Assume a bike is closer than you think it is.
• Two-wheeled vehicles can travel fast. Make sure you have enough room to pass safely.
• Be extra aware of any smaller vehicles beside or behind you. Be sure they are not in your blind
spot as you change lanes. Look for small vehicles passing on the right. This often happens at or
near intersections.

• Don’t assume a "one-eyed" vehicle is a motorcycle—sometimes it’s a car with a burned out
headlight.
• Many accidents involving bicycles are caused by cyclists who disregard traffic rules. Cyclists
often fail to signal for turns because they need both hands for control of the bicycle. Be
prepared for unexpected turns and don’t depend on the rider’s signals. Watch for bicyclists
traveling against the traffic—it’s illegal, but it happens often.
• Before opening your vehicle’s door to get out, check both your rear and side mirrors for bikes
as well as cars.
• Although small vehicles may be faster and more maneuverable than large vehicles, occupants
of small vehicles are far more vulnerable to injuries.
Share the road safely with all smaller vehicles. They are undersized and are easily overlooked.
Be ready to take appropriate action as they can appear out of nowhere at any time.
For All That Matters
800.242.7666
2800 South Taylor Drive . Sheboygan, WI 53081
www.acuity.com
The content of this document is general in nature and provided to you for informational purposes only. The information is derived from sources believed to be reliable and is
offered as a resource to be used together with guidance from your professional insurance, legal, and safety advisors in maintaining a loss prevention program. ACUITY assumes
no liability by reason of the information contained in this document. If you have a specific concern, you should contact your professional insurance, legal, or safety advisors.