May is motorcycle safety awareness month. As the weather heats up and more people hit the road, it is important to keep safety precautions in mind. The following tips can help reduce the risk of accidents and improve road safety.
Avoid alcohol
It gets repeated time and time. However, alcohol and driving remain an ongoing problem. Drinking and riding are particularly challenging for motorcyclists, who rely on balance and coordination.
Did you know that motorcyclists made up 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2017? 28% of those riders were impaired by alcohol. Wait until the end of your road trip before relaxing with that drink.
Maintain a safe speed
Hitting the throttle on the open road is tempting. However, road conditions can change without warning. Maintaining a safe speed gives you time to react to obstacles and can go a long way toward preventing serious injuries.
Wear proper safety gear
You can take every precaution imaginable. However, sometimes a motorcycle accident is unavoidable. Helmets, long sleeves, and durable pants can help minimize your injury risk. In some cases, they may even mean the difference between life and death.
A note to other drivers
Motorcycle safety month is not meant only for motorcyclists. Other drivers have a role to play in minimizing accidents. Remember that motorcycles have the same rights to the road as cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Remain vigilant, check your blind spots and drive defensively to help ensure a safe trip for your fellow travelers.
Stay aware, stay safe
When we are on the road, we owe a duty to all other vehicles. Whether you drive a car or ride a motorcycle, taking basic safety precautions can help reduce serious accidents this summer.