Everyone on the road, no matter the vehicle, is responsible for keeping our roadways safe. With the spring weather finally arriving in Ohio, the amount of motorcycles out and about will be increasing. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. We have compiled some tips for motorcyclists and motorists to promote safety while sharing the road.

For Motorcyclists 

Suit Up 

Dress for both protection and visibility. Most importantly, wear a helmet that meets the Department of Transportation standards . According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control without a helmet, you’re twice as likely to suffer traumatic brain injury from a crash. Progressive recommends also wearing protective gear, such as a suit or jacket, face shield, goggles, boots and gloves. Wearing bright colors and reflective elements are also helpful as they make motorcyclists more visible to drivers.

Slow Down

While motorcycles are lighter and smaller than other vehicles, motorcyclists must avoid the temptation to weave through traffic or use the shoulder of the road. Know yourself as a driver, you need to go a pace that is comfortable for you, within the speed limit. Motorcyclists should also put themselves in the best position to be seen. For example, avoid driving in the blind spot of another vehicle in case they only check their mirrors before changing lanes.

Take a Course

Attend a motorcycle training course or a safety course. No matter if you are a beginner or an experienced rider, it is important to both learn and brush up on your safety knowledge. State Farm recommends checking out the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, which offers online and in person classes, some of which you can even get an insurance discount on.

For Motorists

Allow Clear Distance

Motorcyclists are unable to stop quickly and also have less protection around them.  Increasing distance between yourself as a motorist and a motorcyclist ahead of you will reduce the risk of a crash. What would be a fender bender for two cars could result in a much more serious injury to a motorcyclist.

Signal

Make sure to signal no matter where you are. When motorcycles are driving behind you it is just as important to let them know you are turning onto a driveway as it is to let them know you are changing lanes on a freeway.

Avoid Distractions

Distracted driving is something you always want to avoid. With the reduced size and increased speed of motorcycles, it is extra important to keep all of your attention on the road. Keep music at a reasonable volume, do not use mobile phones, do not do any personal grooming, or eat while behind the wheel.

Additional Resources:

• Allstate (@Allstate): Motorcycle Safety
• Nationwide (@Nationwide): See and Be Seen: Motorcycle Safety Tips
• State Farm (@StateFarm): Tips to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
• Progressive (@askprogressive): Motorcycle Safety