With summer upon us, the amount of motorcycles on the road naturally increases during the more pleasant months of the year. And while fatal crashes involving motorcycles are down year-over-year (slightly over 5,000 in the United States in 2019), the percentage of motorcyclists who die in crashes remains well higher than those riding in traditional vehicles.

With new technology able to assist bikers, the number of deaths is hoped to continue to decrease, but it’s still up to the motorcyclist and other drivers on the road to keep everyone as safe as possible.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at six ways a biker and other drivers can keep motorcycles on two wheels.

Tips for Bikers

  • Safety Gear. Bikers should always wear helmets regardless of whether local laws dictate one. You also want to keep as much of your skin covered as possible (including closed-toe footwear), and there are even airbag vests and jeans being designed in order to inflate upon impact.
  • Remain Visible. Keep your headlights on at all times so drivers are aware of you and your position.
  • Give Plenty of Room. Stay three to four seconds behind vehicles while moving at speed. Double check before changing lanes to pass, and be sure that you are well clear of a car you passed before moving back into the original lane.

Tips for Other Drivers

  • Be Aware of Peak Times. Motorcyclists tend to be out riding more on weekends and holidays, so be more aware of your surroundings at those times.
  • Watch closely for motorcycles before leaving an intersection, especially when turning left. Many broadside collisions with motorcycles occur this way.
  • Give Extra Room to Maneuver. Give bikers extra room and time to maneuver, as sharp movements can be deadly for motorcyclists. Also, while some bikers may be aggressive and try to split lanes, never enter a lane that a motorcycle is already in, as they have the same right to that lane as you do.

 

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.