Motorcycle riders face unique risks on the road, especially when it comes to visibility. Unlike larger vehicles, motorcycles are compact and easily overlooked by other drivers, especially in heavy traffic, poor lighting conditions, or inclement weather. This reduced visibility is one of the leading causes of collisions involving motorcycles.
In many cases, drivers involved in accidents with motorcyclists claim they simply didn’t see the rider. Unfortunately, what may seem like an honest mistake can have devastating consequences. Data consistently shows that motorcyclists are far more likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries in collisions compared to occupants of cars and trucks.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to motorcycles, enhancing your visibility is one of the most effective things you can do to stay safe. In this blog, we’ll explore why visibility is so important, the common factors contributing to motorcycle crashes, and the specific steps riders can take to be more noticeable on the road.
The Visibility Challenge for Motorcyclists
Due to their smaller profile, motorcycles are inherently less visible than other vehicles. They can easily become obscured by blind spots, roadside obstructions, or even simple distractions. In addition, drivers tend to scan for vehicles similar in size to their own—cars, SUVs, and trucks—not motorcycles.
There’s also a psychological factor at play: drivers may look directly at a motorcycle and still not register it. This is known as “inattentional blindness,” a phenomenon where a driver’s brain filters out visual information that isn’t expected. If a driver is looking for cars and trucks, they may not see a motorcycle, even if it’s directly in their line of sight.
This problem is hazardous at intersections, where a significant percentage of motorcycle accidents occur. A common scenario involves a driver turning left across a lane and colliding with an oncoming motorcycle they failed to notice in time.
Alberta’s Riding Environment and Added Risks for Motorcyclists
Riders in Alberta face a range of unique visibility-related hazards, from rural highways with limited lighting to sudden wildlife crossings. Shifting weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, or glare from the low sun can further reduce visibility. Seasonal transitions can also present hazards, as roads may still be covered in gravel from winter maintenance well into the spring.
Many areas in Alberta are also heavily frequented by recreational drivers and commercial traffic (such as industrial trucks), particularly in oilfield and forestry regions. Motorcyclists navigating these roads must be extra vigilant to remain visible to larger, less maneuverable vehicles.
Urban environments have their own challenges. Congested roads, distracted drivers, and multiple lanes of traffic make it easy for a motorcycle to blend into the background, increasing the chances of a serious collision.
Serious and Catastrophic Personal Injuries: The Consequences of Not Being Seen
When a motorcycle is overlooked on the road, the results are often catastrophic or even fatal. Even at moderate speeds, the lack of physical protection puts riders at high risk of severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries, sometimes leading to paraplegia or quadriplegia;
- Fractures;
- Severe road rash (friction burns caused by sliding across the pavement after a wipeout, sometimes exposing skin, muscle, or bone);
- Internal bleeding; and
- Permanent disability.
These injuries can significantly affect a rider’s health, employment, and quality of life. Improving visibility is not just a safety tip but a crucial survival strategy.
Practical Ways to Increase Visibility on a Motorcycle
Fortunately, there are many ways riders can proactively increase their visibility. Incorporating these habits into your regular riding routine can help reduce your risk of collisions.
1. Wear High-Visibility and Reflective Gear
Your riding gear plays a major role in how visible you are to others. Bright colours such as neon yellow, orange, red, or white are significantly more noticeable than darker tones. Consider a brightly coloured helmet or jacket to increase contrast against the road.
Reflective strips, vests, or decals are essential for early morning or evening rides. These materials reflect light back toward its source (typically headlights), making you more noticeable in low-light conditions or at night.
2. Use Your Headlight at All Times
In Alberta, motorcycles are required to have their headlights on whenever the engine is running, even during the daytime. Daytime running lights improve your chances of being noticed, particularly when riding toward oncoming traffic.
Some riders go a step further by installing headlight modulators, which cause the headlight to subtly flicker or pulse during daylight hours. This can draw the attention of other drivers without being distracting or illegal (as long as the system complies with Transport Canada standards).
3. Position Yourself for Maximum Visibility
Strategic lane positioning can dramatically increase your visibility to others on the road. Avoid riding in blind spots, especially next to larger vehicles like transport trucks, and position yourself where you’ll be most visible in a driver’s mirror.
When approaching intersections, position your bike slightly to one side of your lane so you’re not directly behind a car or hidden from cross traffic. Maintaining a safe following distance and adjusting your position based on traffic flow can help ensure you’re seen from all angles.
4. Use Turn Signals (and Hand Signals When Needed)
Always use your turn signals when changing lanes or making turns, even if you don’t see anyone nearby. Signalling early and consistently helps alert other drivers to your intentions.
In certain situations, hand signals can provide an added layer of visibility, especially if you’re unsure whether your turn signals were noticed.
5. Use Your Brakes to Signal Slowing or Stopping
Lightly tapping your brake lever to flash your brake light can be a helpful way to warn drivers behind you that you’re slowing down. This is especially useful when approaching stop signs, crosswalks, or unexpected obstacles.
Consider installing a brake light modulator or adding extra LED brake lights to improve rear visibility.
6. Move Within Your Lane to Attract Attention
Even subtle lane movements, such as shifting slightly within your lane, can help catch the eye of a distracted driver. These movements can break up your silhouette and help draw attention to your presence.
However, avoid erratic movements or weaving, which can be interpreted as unsafe or aggressive driving.
Legal Considerations for Alberta Motorcycle Accidents
While motorcyclists are often unfairly blamed for accidents, visibility can play a role in how liability is determined. In Alberta, personal injury claims are governed by the principle of comparative negligence. This means fault can be shared between parties, and compensation may be reduced if a rider is found partially responsible.
For example, if a rider wasn’t using lights or wasn’t wearing reflective gear at night, it could be argued they didn’t take reasonable steps to ensure their own safety. On the other hand, if a driver fails to shoulder-check or runs a red light, they may bear the majority (or all) of the responsibility.
For this reason, being highly visible not only helps prevent accidents but may also strengthen a rider’s legal position in the event of a collision.
Visibility is an Investment in Your Safety
In Alberta’s beautiful natural landscapes, riding a motorcycle offers freedom, adventure, and connection with the road. However, it also requires vigilance. Visibility should be a central part of every rider’s safety strategy, not just an afterthought.
Small changes—like wearing high-visibility gear, adjusting your lane position, or using your lights effectively—can have a big impact. These strategies help other road users see you, understand your intentions, and give you the space and respect you deserve.
Cuming & Gillespie LLP: Calgary Personal Injury Lawyers Representing Clients Injured in Motorcycle Accidents
With more than two decades of experience handling motorcycle accident cases, Cuming & Gillespie LLP understands the tactics other drivers and insurance companies use and what it takes to pursue the full compensation you deserve. Our skilled personal injury lawyers are committed to building a strong case on your behalf, whether it leads to a fair settlement or goes to trial. While we take care of the legal side, you can focus on your recovery. Call us at (403) 571-0555 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation and find out how we can support you.