As summer begins to heat up, more people are taking to the streets and highways on their motorcycles. Riding a motorcycle is a great way to enjoy the warm weather, but safety experts are warning everyone to stay extra vigilant, particularly over upcoming weeks. In the beginning of the summer season, many drivers are not yet in the habit of looking for people on motorcycles and this inattention can lead to serious, even deadly, motor vehicle accidents.
Particularly common at this time of year are “left-turn” accidents. When drivers are making a left-hand turn out of a driveway or parking lot, they can sometimes fail to see oncoming motorcyclists. Unfortunately, when that happens, the motorcycle rider is most likely to bear the brunt of the collision.
Safety experts advise that motorcyclists take a moment to consider safety before they ride their vehicles. Despite the hot weather, people should always wear a helmet, heavy jacket, heavy pants and gloves, as well as boots specifically designed for motorcycle riding. In no case should a rider wear athletic shoes or shorts while on their vehicle because they provide no protection in the event of an accident.
New riders are particularly vulnerable at this time of year. Not only should they make sure that they are wearing the proper gear, but they should also take a safety course before they go out on their own.
Of course, even with the right gear, motorcyclists are still vulnerable to injury when drivers do not exercise proper caution.
Source: Albany Times Union, “It’s ‘left-turn’ accident season for motorcyclists,” Matthew Hamilton, June 6, 2013