Motorcycle Safety Tips for Drivers and Riders
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Here are some tips from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for both drivers and riders to ensure everyone’s safety on the road.
For Drivers
- Yield to motorcyclists, especially while turning at intersections.
- When driving, avoid distractions that place motorcyclists and other road users at risk.
- Allow the motorcycle the full width of a lane.
- Always use a turn signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- Allow more follow distance — beyond three to four seconds — when behind a motorcycle.
- Drive alcohol- and drug-free, drive defensively, and obey the speed limit.
For Riders
- Observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit.
- Wear personal protective gear and a DOT-compliant helmet. Learn how to identify a safe, DOT-compliant helmet at www.nhtsa.gov/motorcycle-safety/choose-right-motorcycle-helmet.
- Never ride while impaired or distracted.
- Always complete rider education courses and ride with a current motorcycle license.
- Drive and ride defensively.
Drivers and riders need to be courteous and respectful of one another. This, along with non-aggressive driving, can help to reduce the number of crashes.
