Why don’t people see motorcyclists?
There are various theories that have been suggested to identify why people don't see an approaching motorcyclist. However, the most common theory is:
- Driver expectation – drivers don't expect to see motorcycles!
- Despite the fact that motorcyclists' appear to be trying to make themselves more conspicuous (by using reflective clothing and switching their lights on), they are still not being seen
It’s not just learners
An in-depth Department for Transport study suggests that it's not the learner driver that is most likely to be involved in a Smidsy but older, experienced drivers. If these drivers don't expect a motorcycle, they are unlikely to see them.