The weather is heating up to welcome riders out onto the open road during National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. All throughout the month of May, every driver is reminded to share the roadway with emphasis on safety for those on a motorcycle. If you choose to operate any vehicle, you are agreeing to share responsibility for yourself and those traveling around you.
Accidents involving motorcycles are more likely to result in a serious injury or death because these individuals are the most vulnerable. In Pennsylvania alone, yearly reports indicate more than 200 deaths occur from an average of 3,500 accidents. Almost every accident does result in some type of injury, with almost half due to not wearing a proper safety helmet to protect from impact.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, operating this type of vehicle does require the completion of a special education course, but nearly half of fatalities involve drivers that do not have the endorsement on their license. However, this does not mean that all of the responsibility lies with these individuals alone. A driver of any vehicle needs to share their road and care for the well-being of one another at every opportunity.
Motorcyclist Safety Tips
- Educate yourself on road safety and take a riding course
- Obtain the proper licensing and obey all traffic laws when on the road
- Never ride when tired or unalert, especially under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Pay attention to your turn signals and make sure that other drivers are clear about your intentions
- Wear an approved helmet and reflective clothing
- Never let your guard down and keep an eye out for poor road conditions, pedestrians, and animals
Other Vehicle Precautions
- Never get behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or an illegal substance
- Keep enough distance from any detected motorcyclist to avoid a collision
- Maintain total control of your vehicle and focus on your own safe driving
- Do not use any devices that would distract your attention from the road
- Always use signals and check mirrors before proceeding to switch lanes or make a turn
As we raise awareness during National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, share the consideration for your fellow driver throughout the year. Always pay attention to others on the road and use every precaution to avoid an accident. Whether you are a driver or a rider, the important thing to remember about commuting is getting home to our families safely.
If you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware, our attorneys have experience handling the specifics from each state. Contact the New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Lundy Law. Fill out a free online consultation form or call us for free at 1-800-LundyLaw® today.
