Everything Michigan Bikers Need to Know About Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

To commemorate Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is running a comprehensive campaign throughout May aimed at reducing the number of deadly motorcycle crashes. Using the slogan “Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles,” the main goal is to educate automobile drivers about safer ways to share the road with motorcyclists.

The information focuses on typical motorcycle riding behaviors and how to handle potentially risky situations such as intersections, blind spots, motorcycle visibility and calculating distance and stopping time. The campaign also includes a component for motorcyclists with safety tips and strategies for safer and more enjoyable rides.  

In addition, the NHTSA website provides a variety of printable/downloadable educational resources that include posters, sample press releases and social media content that other national and local organizations and municipalities can use to spread the message.

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Facts and Figures from the NHTSA

• Almost half of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve another motor vehicle
• In most cases, the car or truck driver usually violates the motorcyclist’s right of way
• Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and four times more likely to be injured
• Research shows drivers of passenger vehicles are distracted more than 50% of the time
• Approximately 40% of a vehicle’s outer perimeter zones are hidden by blind spots
• More motorcyclists wear Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmets in states where helmets are required by law
• 29% of motorcyclists riders involved in fatal crashes were legally impaired compared to 20% of passenger car drivers, 19% of light-truck drivers and 2% of semi-truck drivers

Share the Road: Motorcycle Safety Tips for Drivers and Bikers  

Here are some of the recommendations from the materials developed by the NHTSA for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

For Drivers

• Those driving automobiles, SUVs and trucks should watch vigilantly for smaller vehicles such as motorcycles and bicycles
• Allow motorcycles the full width of a lane at all times
• Always use a turn signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic
• Some motorcycle turn signals are not self-canceling, so wait to be sure the rider is turning before proceeding
• Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections
• Allow at least three to four seconds of following distance when driving behind a motorcycle
• Avoid using a cell phone or engaging in other distracting activities such as eating or adjusting a radio or GPS
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Assume motorcyclists in your rear or side view mirrors are closer than they appear and drive accordingly

For Motorcyclists

• Always wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmet even if not required by Michigan law
• Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles and sturdy clothing
• Use appropriate hand and turn signals when turning or changing lanes
• Take a motorcycle safety course, especially if you are a new rider or have not ridden in a long time
• Increase visibility by wearing bright clothing and reflective vests, armbands or tape
• Ride in the middle of the lane to be more visible to drivers
• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Put Our Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers to Work for You Today  

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, we can help. Because many of our lawyers ride, we understand the pleasures and pitfalls of biking. We know what it takes to win your case, and we will put our collective legal expertise and extensive resources to work for you. Once we start your case, we won’t stop until we win the compensation you and your family deserve.

Motorcycle accident law is complicated, but finding the right motorcycle accident lawyer is simple.

Don’t let the legal clock run out. Start your case today by filling out the brief form below or call 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation remote consultation from the comfort and safety of your home.

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