Motorcycle Awareness
May is motorcycle awareness month!
Motorcycle’s are back on the road and as the temperatures continue to warm there will be more riders out and about. We want to encourage all drivers to look twice and pay attention with these tips...
For Drivers Behind the Wheel:
Distance
Riders prefer to use a large space between them and vehicles. This allows them more time to react. DO not cut in front of a motorcycle and eliminate the safe following distance.
Turn Signals
Use them. They allow the rider to anticipate traffic flow and use the safest lane.
Weather
Rain and sun glare can make a motorcycle hard to see. Take an extra moment to make sure your path is clear.
Be Aware of your Front, Back, Left and Right Sides
This tip is mainly aimed at people behind the wheel of vehicles. Always be aware of what’s around you as motorcycles can be difficult to see. Check blind spots before changing lanes, look before you cross an intersection and listen for the loud exhaust of bikes.
Live in the Present
It is way too easy to get distracted while riding thinking about where you have to be and what you have to do. It’s important to remember that your operating a machine and think to yourself, what am I doing right now? Hopefully this can bring everything into focus and you can concentrate on what you should be doing right now.
Your Phone is Never More Important Than Driving
Getting away from your phone should be a relaxing experience! If its urgent, pull over. Be more worried about actually hurting someone by responding to your phone rather than hurting someone’s feelings by not immediately responding.
Drunk Driving
It’s not worth the risk of hurting someone and/or getting into legal trouble when you could have ordered a cab or called a sober friend for a ride.
For Motorcyclists:
Wear A Helmet
A helmet is the most important thing you can wear while on a motorcycle. Head injuries are typically what kill riders in a crash. Ensure the helmet fits properly.
If you ignore all of the other tips, please don’t ignore this one.
Live in the Present
It is way too easy to get distracted while riding thinking about where you have to be and what you have to do. It’s important to remember that your operating a machine and think to yourself, what am I doing right now? Hopefully this can bring everything into focus and you can concentrate on what you should be doing right now.
Your Phone is Never More Important Than Driving
Getting away from your phone should be a relaxing experience! If its urgent, pull over. Be more worried about actually hurting someone by responding to your phone rather than hurting someone’s feelings by not immediately responding.
Drunk Driving
It’s not worth the risk of hurting someone and/or getting into legal trouble when you could have ordered a cab or called a sober friend for a ride.
Take a Safety Class
Motorcycle safety courses are available for both beginners and experienced riders. Find one near you HERE
Teach your Passengers
While riding a motorcycle, its always fun to have a passenger! Its important to keep them safe as well. Teach them about motorcycle safety. Get a feel for how your bike will handle with the extra weight.