Warm weather is here, which means it’s motorcycle season in West Virginia and Kentucky. Whether you ride a motorcycle or drive a larger vehicle, now is the time to pay extra careful attention on the road. This transition period can be dangerous and deadly for bikers as everyone adjusts to more varied vehicles on our roads and highways.
It is fitting, then, that May has been designated Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other groups. States across the nation are observing the event by reminding all travelers to be more observant. In today’s post, we’ll share some tips for both drivers and motorcyclists on how to prevent motorcycle accidents and improve safety.
For Drivers
The American Motorcyclist Association recommends that drivers:
- Put more distance between yourself and motorcycles you are following
- Double check blind spots and mirrors before making a lane change
- Be incredibly vigilant when it comes to making left turns across oncoming traffic to ensure that you won’t be crossing into the path of a motorcyclist
- Visually scan the road more often in an attempt to see motorcyclists that you might otherwise not pay attention to
For Motorcyclists
Riders also need to be responsible for their own safety. That includes:
- Always wearing a helmet and any other necessary protective gear
- Keeping your motorcycle license/endorsement current and keeping your bike in good working order
- Wearing brightly colored clothing and reflective safety gear to help drivers see you
- Riding defensively and giving cars as much space as you want them to leave for you
For Everyone
- Be aware of debris on the roads or debris that could blow into the roads. Even grass clippings from your yard can be deadly if they blow into the street and cause a motorcyclist to skid out.
- Motorcycle safety is road safety, and that means it is a responsibility that we all share
Hopefully, these tips will help you travel more safely this spring and summer. And if you are a motorcyclist who has been seriously injured by a negligent driver, you may want to discuss your legal options with an experienced personal injury attorney in your area.
