In New York, many people enjoy riding motorcycles in the summer for an economical form of transportation and the sense of freedom they feel when they ride. May was Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, but riders and motorists need to continue practicing safe driving throughout the year. As warmer weather approaches in the state, it is important for both motorcyclists and those who share the road with them to exercise caution to prevent motorcycle accidents. People who ride motorcycles were 25 times more likely to be killed in collisions in 2019, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Here are some things that both bikers and motorists should do to reduce the risk of motorcycle collisions.

How Motorcyclists Can Reduce Accident Risks

Before you take your bike out for a ride, you should carefully inspect it. Make sure that your tires have good tread and that all of the lights are working. Test the brakes to make sure that they engage. If your motorcycle needs new tires or repairs, take it to the shop before you ride. Some of the other things that you can do to reduce your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident include these:

• Wear a helmet, motorcycle boots, and protective clothing.
• Always obey speed limits, stop signs, and traffic lights.
• Keep plenty of room between your motorcycle and other vehicles.
• Pay attention to what other drivers are doing to give yourself enough time to react.
• Never ride while impaired by alcohol or other drugs.
• Keep your attention focused on the road.

While doing these things won’t prevent all motorcycle accidents, they can greatly reduce the risk of a collision.

How Motorists Can Help Prevent Motorcycle Collisions

Motorcycles are more difficult for motorists to see since they are smaller than other types of vehicles. People who drive cars and trucks in New York owe a legal duty of care to drive with reasonable caution so that they can prevent collisions with motorcycles. Some of the things that motorists can do to avoid causing a motorcycle accident include the following:

• Avoid speeding.
• Check your mirrors, and look over your shoulder before changing lanes to spot motorcyclists.
• Watch for oncoming motorcycles when you are turning left, and yield to them.
• Obey all traffic control devices, including stoplights and stop signs.
• Do not engage in distracting activities while you drive.
• Never drive after you have ingested alcohol or other drugs.
• Avoid tailgating motorcycles.
• Do not drive while drowsy.
• Do not pass in no-passing zones.

Motorists who cause motorcycle collisions should call for help and remain at the scene. They should provide first aid to the motorcyclists if they are injured and wait for the police and emergency medical responders to arrive.

Motorcycle crashes can result in permanently disabling injuries or fatalities. This makes it important for motorcycle riders and other motorists to exercise care when they share the road. By following these safety tips, motorcyclists and motorists can reduce the risks of becoming involved in motorcycle collisions.