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.
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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
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