May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to crashes than cars and other vehicles on the road . Many crashes occur because motorcycles are often hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. It is important that motorists always make a visual check for motorcyclists by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic.
Fatalities involving motorists and motorcyclists increased 131 percent between 1998 and 2008. The mileage death rate for motorcyclists in 2007 was 37 times greater than for passenger car occupants.
“Throughout spring and summer the number of motorcyclists on the road will increase. It is important for both motorists and motorcyclists to be aware of one another,” said David Teater, National Safety Council senior director of Transportation Initiatives. “To better defend themselves, motorcyclists should follow the rules of the roadway and wear protective gear, including a Department of Transportation compliant helmet.”
The National Safety Council offers these tips for motorists and motorcyclists:
Motorists
* Allow greater following distance behind a motorcycle.
* Be extra cautious in intersections. Most crashes occur when a motorist fails to see a motorcyclist and turns left in front of a motorcycle.
* Give a motorcycle the full lane width – never try to share a lane.
Motorcyclists
* Avoid riding in poor weather conditions.
* Position motorcycle in lane where you will be out of a motorist’s blind spot.
* Use turn signals for every turn or lane change.
In the event of an accident it is important to know your rights. Under Kentucky law injured motorists and motorcyclists may be entitled to payment of medical expenses, money for time missed from work, as well as other compensation due to their injuries.
