pensacolahog.com - Safety - Rear-end collision protection

This link shows a motorcyclist stopped at a light being rear-ended by a pick-up truck. A couple of things come to mind when arm chair analyzing the scene. First and most importantly, just because you're stopped on a motorcycle, doesn't mean you're safe; CHECK YOUR SIX. Second, when a motorcyclist is the first at red light, the presence is not as noticeable as that of a car, so you have to be extra ready to take evasive maneuvers. When stopped behind a larger vehicle, the motorists approaching the light have you, and the vehicles in front of you to see that they need to stop, (hopefully). With that in mind, you have to be looking for the exit, looking in the mirrors, and listening for the screech of tires. Third, the police car likely had the bluelights on for the traffic stop; that often times distracts drivers attention from where they need to be looking. Personal note: I hate rubber-neckers. So, if you find yourself in a situation whereby their is something to distract drivers attention from you, be extra ready! Fourth, get noticed! Here's some tips I use myself:

Flash your brake lights.

Use your turn signals even if you are going straight. Once the traffic behind you stops, then you can turn off the signals. Harley-Davidson and GoldWing riders even have four ways that they can use.

Stretch! I'll scan the mirrors to see the traffic approaching and while they're far enough away to allow time for me to do so, I'll stretch my arms up and out in an effort to increase my visibility to the approaching drivers.

Check you six! If you have to scram quickly, you need to know where to safely ride. If you gage the traffic you may be able to squirt across the red light to escape the rear-end collision. I am sure the Police will understand.

Be in first gear until traffic stops behind you, (at least).

Practice launching your motorcycle from a stop in a safe controlled environment so that if the situation ever arises, you can quickly escape from a rear-end collision.