Safe Communities recently announced that there have been seven fatal crashes this year compared to six at this time last year.
With spring here and summer fast approaching, motorcyclists are out enjoying the open road.
Follow these tips to help ensure a safe ride for everyone.
Tips for Motorcyclists
•Observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit.
•Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and other personal protective gear. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017. An additional 749 lives could have been saved if all motorcyclists had worn their helmets.
•Never ride while impaired or distracted. An OVI costs an average $10,000 and can lead to jail time, loss of your operator’s license and higher insurance rates.
•Complete rider education courses and ride with a current motorcycle license.
•Drive and ride defensively.
Tips for Motorists
•Remember that motorcyclists have the same rights on the road as any other motorist.
•Observe all traffic laws, use signals and always obey the speed limit. Yield to motorcyclists, especially when you are turning at intersections.
•Motorcycles are smaller than most vehicles and can be difficult to see. If you are turning at an intersection with an obstructed view of oncoming traffic, wait to see around the obstruction, scan for all roadway users (pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists) and proceed cautiously.
•When following a motorcycle, allow for plenty of space around the motorcycle to maneuver or stop in an emergency, change speed, or adjust lane position to avoid hazards.
•Never drive distracted.
For more information, send an email to slwiech@bgsu.edu or Lt. Matthew Geer, Ohio Highway Patrol Post 87 Commander, at mngeer @dps.ohio.gov.
Safe Communities of Wood County is a division of Bowling Green State University Community Well Being, office of Health and Wellness.
