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Sharing the road, although a simple idea, is often forgotten by drivers of all types of vehicles, said Meurer, who noted that motorcycles “are among the smallest and most vulnerable on the road, putting riders at greater risk of death and serious injury in a crash. ”
Motorcylists are 30 times more likely than car occupants to die in a crash — and five times more likely to be injured – according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Until 2013, motorcycle deaths increased every year over 16 years except in 2009.
In 2013, 4,668 motorcyclists died on America’s roads, accounting for 14% of all highway deaths — even though motorcycles represent barely 3% of vehicles registered in the U.S.
“One way that we can decrease the numbers of injuries and fatalities, as well as make the roads safer, is for motorists and motorcyclists to work together alike,” Meurer said.
He urged motorcyclists to:
• Ride like you are invisible… because you are to most drivers;
• Use proper turn and hand signals to signal drivers of your intentions;
• Remember to cancel your turn signals if not self-canceling;
• Obey all speed limits, traffic laws, and be properly licensed;
• Slow down to proper entry speed before you enter turns, curves and swerves;
• Wear the proper riding gear, a DOT approved helmet, and bright reflective clothing;
• NEVER ride impaired by alcohol or drugs;
• Watch for poor roadway conditions, i.e.: potholes, ruts, sand, gravel, debris, etc.;
• Stay alert for pedestrians, wildlife, and domestic animals entering into the roadway;
• Take a motorcycle safety riding course at a local school and enhance your riding skills;
• Remain alert at all times and never let your guard down while riding.
Meurer urged other vehicle drivers to:
• Be on the lookout for motorcycles at all times;
• Allow a motorcycle the full width of a traffic lane at all times;
• Signal all lane changes and turns, and constantly check mirrors and blind spots before proceeding;
• Keep a safe following distance behind motorcycles and other vehicles
• Be fully focused on the task of driving and in control of your vehicle at all times
• NEVER drive impaired by alcohol or drugs;
• Put down the phones and electronic devices that distract drivers all too often.
And if you see a motorcyclist signaling a turn, wait for the rider to execute the turn before pulling out or moving. Some motorcycle turn signals are not self-canceling like autos and could have been mistakenly left on by the rider. Wait that extra second to avoid a collision.
MORE INFO: www.nhtsa.gov/safety/motorcycles
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