Motorcycle Safety Month

With spring already in full-swing and summer approaching, more motorcyclists are taking to the highways; with that in mind, pedestrians, bicyclists and other motorists should be extra attentive and ‘share the road.’ Motorcycles are one of the smallest vehicles on the road, often hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. Motorists and bicyclists should always make visual checks for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections. Pedestrians
should also scan for motorcyclists who might be hidden by other traffic.

In an effort to aid in raising awareness of Motorcycle Safety Month, Kentucky Emergency Management and the Cynthiana/ Harrison County Emergency Management Agency would like to offer the following tips and information:

Raising Awareness of Motorcyclists for other Motorists.

• Allow motorcycles a full lane. Motorcycles have all of the rights and privileges of any motor vehicle on the road.
• Visually check for motorcycles in mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
• Signal when turning, merging or changing lanes.
• Be cautious of motorcycle turn signals – they can be misleading. Motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
• Leave plenty of space when following motorcycles to give them enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.

General Guidelines for Riding a Motorcycle Safely.

Be Visible

• Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.
• Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
• Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
• Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have.
• Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
• If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.

Dress Safely

• Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.
• Wear bright clothing and a light colored helmet.
• Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
• Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
• Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.

Apply Effective Mental Strategies

• Constantly search the road for changing conditions.
• Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions.
• Give other motorists’ time and space to respond to you.
• Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of the lane where you are the most visible.
• Watch for turning vehicles.
• Signal your next move in advance.
• Avoid weaving between lanes.
• Pretend you are invisible, and ride extra defensively.
• Don’t ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Know and follow the rules of the road, and stick to the speed limit.

Know Your Bike and How to Use It

• Get formal training and take refresher courses.
• Call 800.446.9227 or visit www.msf-usa.org to locate the Motorcycle Safety Foundation hands-on rider course nearest you.
• Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces.

Remember: Give yourself space. People driving cars often just don’t see motorcycles. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.

Additional information:

• Kentucky Motorcycle Rider Education Program – http://transportation.ky.gov/driver-licensing/pages/motorcycle-moped-licenses.aspx