May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, so we at Shook & Stone have provided five helpful tips all motorcyclists should use when riding on our roads and highways. Motorists also need to play their part in traffic safety and share the road with motorcyclists. When both drivers and motorcyclists are committed to safe driving, many accidents can be avoided.

Share the Road

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and other safety organizations throughout the nation are participating in a campaign called “Share the Road.” The message of this campaign is for motorists and motorcycles to share the road with each other – which involves motorists being more alert and aware of motorcyclists and motorcycles making themselves visible to other motorists.

Be Aware Of Blind Spots

One of the biggest dangers to motorcyclists is being in a driver’s blind spot. Motorists should always check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or making a turn, and motorists need to give extra attention when scanning for motorcycles. It can be difficult for motorists to detect a motorcycle due to its smaller profile, so it’s important for all drivers to be especially vigilant when looking out for them.

Don’t Drink and Drive

According to the NHTSA, “Statistics show that the percentage of intoxicated motorcycle riders in fatal crashes is greater than the percentage of intoxicated drivers on our roads.” Riding a motorcycle can present enough risks on its own, let alone when the driver is intoxicated. Always ride sober.

Choose the Right Helmet

Not all helmets are created equal. Studies show that wearing the right Protective gear can save lives. When choosing a helmet, make sure you pick one that has a thick inner liner, a sturdy chin strap and rivets, and a helmet that is approved by the DOT (usually indicated by a sticker on the outside back of the helmet.

Avoid Lane Splitting

In 2013, a bill was proposed in Nevada to legalize motorcycle lane splitting. If this bill had passed, Nevada would have been the first state in the nation to legalize this type of driving. Lane splitting is when motorcycles drive in between cars and between lanes. This can be extremely dangerous.

Maintain a Safe Speed

There can be a temptation to drive fast when you are riding a motorcycle, but maintaining a safe speed is a key component in avoiding serious accidents. Driving at the speed limit and at a safe distance from other motorists allows you enough time to brake safely without hitting another vehicle or having another vehicle hit you. Speeding is one of the most common causes of traffic accidents, so be sure to follow traffic laws & maintain a safe speed at all times.

Shook & Stone not only help people after they have been involved in accidents, we are also strong advocates for traffic safety. To learn more about how we could help you, call us today at 702-570-0000.