Over the past 10 years motorcycles have been increasing in popularity. Studies indicate that about 75% of motorcycle accidents involve collisions with automobiles. In about two thirds of these accidents the automobile is at fault. Since motorcyclist are not well protected, any accident or collision can be devastating. Motorists who appreciate the hazards motorcyclists face, and who respect their rights on roadways, can help reduce the likelihood of accidents.

Please refer to the table below for safety tips that can help keep everyone safe on our roadways:

Tips for Motorcycle Riders

• Assume you're not seen - ride with headlights on at all times to increase visibility.
• Don't take unsafe advantages with your speed or maneuverability.
• Use appropriate signaling, be sure to cancel signals after turns.
• Ride in a manner that discourages lane sharing with autos. 
• Stay out of auto's blind spots - check your own blind spots before lane changes. 
• Use caution, especially at intersections. Automobiles may not see you or misjudge your speed.
• Use caution when passing automobiles - be certain they see you and you can pass safely. 
• Maintain a clear distance ahead in case you need to maneuver to avoid road hazards.
• Ride so as to improve your visibility and view of traffic.
• Always wear appropriate safety gear including helmets.

Tips for Automobile Drivers

• Aggressively watch for motorcycles, especially during good weather.
• Never crowd a motorcycle - respect their right to share the roadways.
• Be aware motorcycle turn signals usually don't self-cancel, so don't assume a blinking turn signal assures a turn.
• Never share a lane with a motorcycle - they need added space to safely maneuver. 
• Check your blind spots before lane changes - motorcycles are small.
• Actively watch for motorcycles, especially at intersections.
• Due to their smaller size, a motorcycle's speed is easy to misjudge.
• Assist motorcycles trying to pass. Give any motorcycles you pass extra room before returning to your lane.
• Be aware that motorcycles may need to maneuver suddenly to avoid road hazards. Items like potholes, railroads, oil slicks, puddles, sand, gravel, debris, etc. that may cause no problem for autos may be pose significant problems for motorcycles.
• Motorcycles may need to maneuver in their lane to better view traffic, give them space.
• Always wear your safety belts.

For additional information please visit the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.