The Deadly Consequences of Brake Checking a Motorcycle
Brake checking, the act of suddenly applying your vehicle’s brakes to intimidate or scare another driver, is an extremely unsafe driving practice. When a motorcycle is brake-checked, the chances of an unfortunate outcome are extremely high due to the unique vulnerabilities of bikers. If you are involved in a motorcycle wreck caused by another driver’s negligence, you may have legal recourse for any injuries and damage suffered.
The Dangers of Brake Checking
Motorcycles are more prone to tipping over compared to cars since they have a higher center of gravity and narrower wheelbase. Forcing a motorcycle to stop suddenly by hitting the brakes can disrupt the rider’s balance, leading to a loss of control and a severe crash.
Bikers have significantly fewer protections to keep them safe in the event of a crash than other motorists. Motorcycles lack protective shielding and a solid frame around the biker, meaning that the rider absorbs a substantial amount of the impact of a collision. Riders are prone to significant or even fatal injuries in even low-speed collisions.
In some cases, brake checking can cause multi-vehicle collisions. When a motorcyclist is forced to take evasive action or come to a sudden stop, other vehicles may be inadvertently affected as well.
Legal and Ethical Implications
In many U.S. states, it is illegal to brake check another vehicle, whether it is a motorcycle or not. Drivers who are found guilty of driving recklessly may face civil lawsuits or criminal charges, especially if their actions directly contribute to a wreck that causes property damage, injuries, or fatal harm.
Beyond the legal consequences of reckless driving, brake checking is a morally poor act. Drivers who are willing to brake check other motorists demonstrate a lack of respect for other road users and a willingness to endanger innocent people. Aggressive driving, including brake checking, can quickly escalate into a case of road rage and put countless lives at risk.
Physical Dangers of Brake Checking
It is very dangerous to brake check a motorcycle. The sudden deceleration of unexpected braking can cause a rider to be flung from their bike, causing head trauma, broken bones, or even death.
The risk of injury in a crash can be multiplied by poor road conditions, bad weather, and even the type of motorcycle being ridden. Slippery roads, poor visibility, or motorcycles with less stable handling may be more likely to crash after the rider is brake checked.
In some cases, brake checking can also have long-term psychological consequences for motorcyclists. The psychological impact and trauma of a close call on the road can cause fear of riding, anxiety, and an inability to regain confidence.
Safer Alternatives to Aggressive Driving
Instead of driving aggressively and employing tactics like brake checking, drivers should do their best to maintain a courteous and safe driving style. Ideally, drivers should always practice defensive driving, which can include:
- Maintaining a safe following distance
- Properly using turn signals
- Avoiding aggressive lane changes
If you feel frustrated by the behavior of another motorist, you should remain calm and do your best to not escalate the situation. Non-aggresive signals or horn taps can alert the motorcyclist to any dangerous conditions, while not exposing you or the rider to additional physical risk. If you believe a motorcyclist is riding recklessly, you can report the driving incident to local authorities. You should not attempt to pursue, detain, or otherwise escalate a situation with a reckless motorcyclist.
Brake Checking is Never a Good Practice Behind the Wheel
Brake checking a motorcycle is a dangerous and reckless act that can have severe consequences. To protect yourself and the motorists around you, be sure to prioritize your safety and avoid aggressive driving practices. By demonstrating understanding and respect towards motorcyclists, we can create a safer driving experience for those using our shared roads.
