May is Motorcycle Awareness Month
Shared Respect Among All Road Users Can Save Motorcyclists’ Lives
Motorcyclist fatalities increased slightly in 2010 to 4,502 accounting for 14 percent of total fatalities for the year. This increase in motorcycle fatalities for the year picks up the overall increasing trend over the last 13 years that saw a one-year decline in 2009 when 4,469 motorcyclists were killed. However, the greatest decrease in the estimated number of injured people is among motorcyclists, with an 8.9-percent decrease.
Now that warmer weather is right around the corner, motorcyclists will soon be out in force. Drivers of cars, trucks and buses are reminded to look out for and share the road with motorcycle riders, and motorcycle riders are reminded to obey traffic laws, wear DOT-compliant helmets and other protective gear, and make themselves visible by wearing bright colors and using reflective tape. Here are other reminders to keep motorcyclists safe:
• Road users are reminded to never drive, bike, or walk while distracted. Doing so can result in tragic consequences for motorcyclists.
• A motorcycle has the same rights and privileges as any other vehicle on the roadway.
• Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width. Although it may seem that there is enough room in the traffic lane for a motor vehicle and a motorcycle, the motorcycle needs the room to maneuver safely. Do not share the lane.
• Because motorcycles are small, they can be difficult for other road users to see them, or judge their speed and distance as they approach.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This allows motorcyclists to anticipate traffic flow and find a safe lane position.
• Because of its smaller size, a motorcyclist can be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. Always check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
• Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals may not be self-canceling and motorcyclists sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the rider is going to turn before you proceed.
• Remember that road conditions that are minor annoyances to motorists can pose major hazards to motorcyclists. Motorcycle riders may change speed or adjust position within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffic conditions such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings, and grooved pavement.
• Allow more following distance -- three or four seconds – when following a motorcycle so the motorcycle rider has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.
For more information, visit http://www.ktsro.org/motorcycle-safety
And remember: Share the road.
