EDITORIAL: Be aware of motorcycles

Published 9:31 am Thursday, May 20, 2021

We encourage motorcycle riders to ride safely and urge all other motorists to be watchful of two- and three-wheeled vehicles on our roadways.

May is National Motorcycle Awareness Month.

Spring is a favorite time of year for motorcyclists and it can be an extremely hazardous time, according to state officials.

In 2019, there were 5,014 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes, a decrease from 2018 (5,038). These deaths accounted for 14% of the total highway fatalities that year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Even the smallest momentary lapse in a vehicle driver’s awareness can result in the death of an unseen motorcyclist.

Motorcycles operate on the roadways with the same rights and privileges as any motor vehicle.

State highway officials consistently encourage motorists and motorcyclists to “share the road.”

Yet, motorcycle crashes involving another motor vehicle account for nearly half of all motorcyclist fatalities in the U.S.

Drivers should follow these tips to prevent a fatal crash with a motorcycle: 

-Though a motorcycle is a small vehicle, its operator still has the same rights of the road as any other motorist. Allow the motorcycle the full width of a lane at all times.

-Always use a turn signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic.

-If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful: motorcycle signals are often non-canceling and the motorcyclist could have forgotten to turn it off. Always ensure that the motorcycle is turning before proceeding.

-Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections.

-Always allow more follow distance — three to four seconds — when behind a motorcycle. This gives them more time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.

Motorcyclists must take extra precautions to guard against drivers who may not see them. Here are some tips from the Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program:

— Focus on driving/riding. Put away cellphones and other devices — remember — it’s the law.

— Signal intentions and look before changing lanes.

— Use caution at intersections looking both ways before crossing or turning.

— Wear a state Department of Transportation-approved helmet, reflective gear and bright colors when riding.

— Evaluate your surroundings.

— Drive/ride aware and alert.

— Allow plenty of room between vehicles and avoid blind spots.

– Obey all traffic laws and be properly licensed.

– Use hand and turn signals at every lane change or turn.

– Ride in the middle of the lane where you will be more visible to drivers.

– Never ride distracted or impaired.

It should also be noted that motorcycle rallies and meet-ups often involve alcohol. 

As dangerous as it is to drink and drive a car, it is even more dangerous to operate a motorcycle while drunk or buzzed. Just don’t do it.

Motorcycle riders are encouraged to take a safety course at one of the Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program-approved sites and to refresh skills and knowledge regularly. More information is available at www.dds.georgia.gov.

Ride safely.