madmike2
Shtirrenuppenmeister
Hans, it's been too long since I read the article. I doubt I could recount that parameters he used, I only remember the conclusion.
I suppose that if he had to brake or swerve (i.e., someone pulled out in front of him or changed lanes into him or caused him to avoid an encounter), that would count as a violation of his "space".
If you are truly interested, I will scan through 3 or 4 years of MCN to look for the article.
To me, the bottom line isn't being visible by using loud pipes, bright paint or bright riding clothing. Those solutions may help, but not at night (though I do wear apparel with reflective stripes and have reflective material on the rear of my motorcycle).
The more basic issue is being recognized so that drivers react to our presence, as they would for another car. Even so, drivers are known to pull out in front of and change lanes into another car, hence the onus again being placed on our ability to perceive, anticipate circumstances and initiate an avoidance procedure.
Another avenue that needs to be explored, as noted in the syllabus of the presentation you attended: How does one begin to solve the inattentive driving habits of many drivers on the public roadways?
IMO, the highway signs warning drivers to "Watch for motorcycles" was a beginning. Perhaps they need to rotate the signage with other messages like:
You are responsible, don't talk on your cell while driving.
You are responsible, don't eat while driving.
You are responsible, don't read while driving.
You are responsible, look before changing lanes.
ad infinitum
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