Club Encourages Motorists to Watch Out for Motorcycle
Riders
Indianapolis, IN (Aug. 9,
2007) –
Motorcycle riders now account for one out of every ten U.S.
road fatalities each year – with motorcyclist deaths from
traffic crashes rising each of the last eight years.
In recognition of these facts, AAA Hoosier Motor Club
reminds all motorists to safety “Share the Road” with
motorcycles and to be especially alert to help keep
motorcyclists safe.
Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than passenger
vehicle drivers in the event of a crash. Research shows that
approximately 80 percent of motorcycle crashes injure or
kill a motorcycle rider, while only 20 percent of passenger
car crashes injure or kill a driver or passenger in their
vehicle. In fact, per vehicle mile traveled in 2005,
motorcyclists were 37 times more likely to die in a traffic
crash than occupants of passenger vehicles.
“Share the Road” -- Keep Motorcyclists Safe on our Roadways
-
Remember the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the
rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the
roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane
width—never try to share a lane;
-
Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking
mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a
lane of traffic and at intersections;
-
Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a
motorcycle – motorcycle signals are often not
self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them
off;
-
Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances
to passenger vehicles pose major hazards to
motorcyclists;
-
Allow more following distance, three or four seconds,
when following a motorcycle, so the motorcyclist has
enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. Do not
tailgate.
Motorcyclists have responsibilities, too, by following the
rules of the roadway, being alert to other drivers and
always wearing protective gear.
Together, motorcyclists and passenger car vehicles can
safely “Share the Road.”
AAA
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