Motorcyclist Killed While Trying To Overtake SUV

Passing other vehicles is sometimes legal but not always safe. If a driver does not know how to overtake another vehicle properly, they can get into a crash. For one motorcyclist, it was fatal.

The accident occurred on the afternoon of December 5 in Pasco County. A motorcycle and Chevy Trax SUV were traveling north on Interstate 75, near State Route 56. The motorcycle tried to pass the Trax. However, when the rider tried to overtake the SUV, the motorcycle collided with the rear of the Trax. This caused the motorcycle rider to be ejected from the bike.

The motorcyclist, a 37-year-old man from Tampa, died at the accident scene. The Trax driver, a 25-year-old Wesley Chapel woman, suffered minor injuries.

How to Safely Pass in a Motorcycle

Passing safely on a motorcycle requires skill and situational awareness. Follow these steps:

• Assess the situation. First, ensure passing is legal. Look for solid or double solid lines, no-passing zones, or “No Passing” signs. Make sure you have a clear view of the road ahead, free of oncoming traffic, curves, or hills. You also need enough space. Verify there’s enough room to pass safely without cutting off other vehicles.
• Position yourself. Maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle you want to pass. This gives you a better view of the road ahead and prevents tailgating. Stay in a position where you can see and be seen — usually the left side of your lane.
• Signal your intentions. Use your turn signal to indicate your intention to pass. This alerts the driver ahead and others around you.
• Execute the pass. Check mirrors and blind spots. Look over your shoulder to ensure no vehicles are overtaking you. Accelerate smoothly. Increase speed decisively but within your bike’s limits to minimize the time spent in the opposing lane. Stay in the passing lane only as long as necessary.
• Return safely. Indicate your return to the lane by signaling. Ensure you’re well ahead of the vehicle you passed (a good rule of thumb is to see the entire car in your rearview mirror). Re-enter the lane smoothly without cutting off the vehicle you passed.

You should avoid passing multiple vehicles at once, as this makes the situation dangerous. Do not pass in poor weather, low visibility, or heavy traffic. Also, be extra cautious around large vehicles like trucks, as their blind spots are larger.

Seek Help for Your Personal Injury Case

When riding a motorcycle, safety first. Motorcycles are quick and dangerous. They can be hard to control, making accidents common.

Get the help you need from a Dade City & Zephyrhills motorcycle accident attorney from Madonna Law. Safe riding is not enough. The most careful motorcyclist in the world cannot always escape injury. Fill out the online form or call (800) 557-0411 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

wfla.com/news/pasco-county/motorcyclist-dies-in-crash-on-i-75-in-pasco-county/