Motorcyclist deaths occurred 27 times more frequently than fatalities in other vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) 2014 Fatal Crash Data. Motorcycles can be easily hidden in a car’s blind spots because of its small size, so it is important for both drivers and riders to maintain a heightened sense of awareness for one another.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has even developed its own comprehensive motorcycle safety campaign, Live Free Ride Alive, to help reduce the number of motorcycle crashes and fatalities on Pennsylvania roadways. With nearly 850,000 licensed motorcyclists in Pennsylvania, it is still important to remember that there are more cars and trucks on the road than motorcycles. Sharing the road should be a priority for both drivers and riders.
Here are some of Live Free Ride Alive’s safety tips:
For Motorcyclists:
- Be seen – wear reflective clothing
- Obey the posted and advisory speed limit
- Use common sense by riding sober
- Allow enough time to react to potentially dangerous situations
For Drivers:
- Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes
- Use your signal
- Allow more following distance – leave at least four seconds when following a motorcycle
- Respect a motorcycle as a full-size vehicle with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the roadway
Safe riding practices and cooperation for all road users will help reduce the number of fatalities on the road. Share the road and be alert.
To view Pennsylvania’s Live Free Ride Alive campaign – Click Here.
