Throughout May (and every month for that matter), the National Safety Council is encouraging motorists to share the road with riders and be extra vigilant when they are nearby.
Fatalities involving motorcycles and automobiles increased by over 130% from 1998. The death rate per mile for motorcyclists is 37 times greater than for occupants of passenger cars.
Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable to crashes than other drivers. Many crashes occur because motorcycles are hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. It is important that motorists always make a visual check for motorcyclists by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic.
“Throughout spring and summer, the number of motorcyclists on the road will increase. It is important for both motorists and motorcyclists to be aware of one another,” said David Teater, NSC senior director of Transportation Initiatives. “To better defend themselves, motorcyclists should follow the rules of the roadway and wear protective gear, including a Department of Transportation compliant helmet.”
6 Tips for Motorists and Motorcyclists
- Take extra caution at intersections. The overwhelming majority of crashes happen when a driver turns left in front of a motorcycle
- Allow greater distance when following a motorcycle
- Give a motorcycle the full lane width. Do not try to share a lane
- Avoid riding motorcycles in poor weather conditions
- Avoid motorist’s blind spots
- Use turn signals for every lane change and turn
