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Let’s step away from politics for a moment and discuss motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian safety. It’s hardly a new topic, but as I drive around Brewer and Bangor at various times, I see people who I swear don’t have a clue about reducing their risk of being killed or seriously injured. The problem? They don’t realize that drivers often simply don’t see them.
Motorcycle riders are a prime example. Their bikes are frequently black, and the riders often wear black clothing, or even military fatigues. Visually, a motorcycle and its operator might span just three feet in width. If there’s a dark-colored vehicle behind them, the bike and rider blend right in. Our brains often don’t even register them, as they’re wired to spot cars and trucks, not a slim motorcycle.
The same issue applies to bicyclists. Riders often wear dark clothing, and their bikes are typically narrow and dark as well.
In both cases, these folks too often cruise around oblivious to the fact that drivers — often distracted by nearby phones — just don’t notice them.
On a potential upside, it’s job security for emergency room workers, ambulance crews, doctors, and nurses.
David Winslow
Brewer
