Your Extra Look Could Save A Biker’s Life, GEM Advises Drivers

Advertisement

dji-retail.co.uk

Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to take extra care at junctions, where motorcyclists remain especially vulnerable.

GEM says motorcyclists are still being badly hurt on Britain’s roads, and junctions remain a danger point. The latest government figures show 384 motorcycle fatalities in 2025, up 13% on the previous year, underlining how important it is for drivers to look out for riders every time they approach a junction.

Sorry mate, I didn’t see you…
The term ‘SMIDSY’ comes from the phrase ‘Sorry mate, I didn’t see you’, which is still a common explanation given by drivers after collisions with motorcyclists at junctions. It describes a classic type of observation error where drivers look but fail to register an approaching motorcycle, probably because in their minds they are searching for larger vehicles such as cars or vans.

GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst said: ”As drivers we can sometimes find it difficult to identify approaching motorcyclists because they occupy such a small part of our field of vision. If we are not expecting to see one, the chance of spotting one coming towards us is reduced, and the risk of a collision rises.

“The summer brings more riders out on the roads, so we need to make a habit of looking out for them on every journey and ensuring we avoid a ‘SMIDSY’ collision.

“Before pulling out of any junction, look carefully all around and make a specific check for motorcyclists coming towards you. If you expect them to be there, you are far more likely to see them in good time and prevent a potentially serious collision.”

Avoid SMIDSY: three tips for drivers 

• Before pulling out at any junction, expect a motorcyclist, possibly more than one, to be coming towards you.
• Look carefully and do not pull out unless you are sure the way is clear.
• Keep both hands on the wheel and look directly at an approaching rider so your intentions are clear.

Avoid SMIDSY: three tips for riders 

• Take a position closer to the centre line where it is safe to do so, to help improve visibility.
• As you approach a junction, consider changing position within your lane if it is safe, because movement can help you stand out more clearly to drivers.
• If you see a car waiting to turn, assume the driver has not seen you and be ready to stop or take an escape route.

Keep up to date with GEM Motoring Assist at:
X: @motoringassist
Facebook: @gemmotoringassist
Instagram: @gem_motoringassist
LinkedIn: @gem-motoring-assist-limited

Win with BOTB.com

**************************************

Support Modern Classic Motorcycle News and become a YouTube Member for just £5 per month. Members help keep the channel independent and receive extra value, including digital issues of M.C.M. News Magazine join here:

Out Now on Kindle

Watch, like and subscribe to our Youtube channel

Get These Awesome Perks With Our YouTube Membership!: Join Our YouTube Membership and Save – Get two digital issues of Modern Classic Motorcycle News per month for price of one join here:

👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔔 Subscribe for more modern classic motorcycle content

Sportsbikeshop.co.uk

£139.99

RST Lumberjack Aramid Lined CE Shirt - Green Check

BUY NOW

Sportsbikeshop.co.uk

£159.99

Oxford Beast Lock Padlock

BUY NOW

Sportsbikeshop.co.uk

£229.99

Furygan Baldo 3in1 Textile Jacket - Black

BUY NOW

* Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission (at no cost to you) if you click on the link and make a purchase. Any money made goes straight back into the website and magazine. Your support is appreciated!