There are signs everywhere that summer is on the way – the flowers are blooming, the trees are green, bugs are coming out of hiding, and lawnmowers are back in action. But warm weather means more than freshly-cut grass and spiders. Motorcycles are being brought out of storage and put back on the road.
According to the CDC, over 34,000 motorcyclists were killed in motorcycle accidents between 2001 and 2008, and over one million were injured. These death rates increased 55% in that time period.
Motorcycles are truly wonderful machines, especially when they are ridden safely. However, those aboard a motorcycle are not the only ones who have to be safe. Every single driver on the road can help to reduce motorcycle accidents by simply paying attention.
- Always check your rear-view mirror, your side mirrors, and over your shoulder before changing lanes.
Listen and look for motorcycles as you’re driving. - Make sure that you maintain an extended, safe distance when driving behind a motorcycle.
- Use your turn signal before and during lane changes.
These are great guidelines to follow year-round, but they are especially applicable when sharing the road with motorcycles. Remember, motorcycles are smaller and slimmer than your vehicle, and they offer much less protection to their passengers. It only takes an extra second to be a safer driver. So look twice, and you could save a life.
For more information on motorcycle accidents and statistics, visit the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/features/dsMotorcycleSafety/
