Summer Riding Safety Tips

Accidents are most likely to occur in these high-risk situations:

Left Turns
The most common accident between cars and motorcycles is at an intersection when the automobile driver is making a left turn in front of a motorcycle. Over forty percent of all motorcycle accidents occur at intersections.

Car's Blind Spot
Cyclists riding alongside a lane of cars are often out of the view of the driver. An unsuspecting driver may collide with a motorcyclist as the driver tries to change lanes.

Hazardous Road Conditions
Motorcyclists have to be much more concerned about road obstructions. Potholes, fallen tree limbs, or railroad tracks may be minor problems for many drivers. A motorcyclist may have to slow down or change lanes to avoid these obstacles.

Weather Conditions
When the road surface is wet or icy, motorcyclists' braking and handling abilities are impaired.

Strong Winds
A strong gust of wind can move a motorcycle across an entire lane if the rider isn't prepared for it. Wind gusts from large trucks in the other lane can be a real hazard.

Large Vehicles
A large vehicle, such as a van or truck, can block a cycle from a driver's view. The motorcyclist may seem to suddenly appear from nowhere.