RIDING: We can see why May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month: with the sudden burst of great weather, our excitement of spring sometimes overpowers our common sense.
To help, Gov. Tom Wolf’s Administration shared some safety tips.
“As more and more people enjoy the fun and excitement of motorcycling, we want to remind both motorcyclists and motorists to share the road safely,” Gov. Tom Wolf said. “Staying aware while driving or riding, obeying speed limits and being responsible will help keep fatalities and injuries as low as possible.”
He recommends motorists:
• Watch for Motorcycles: be aware that motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see. Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and at intersections.
• Allow more following distance: leave at least four seconds when following a motorcycle.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
• Respect a motorcycle as a full-size vehicle with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the roadway. Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width as the motorcyclist needs the room to maneuver safely in all types of road conditions.
• Never drive impaired.
Motorcyclists can follow these tips:
• Be seen by wearing reflective clothing and put reflective tape on your protective clothing and motorcycle. Also, wear face or eye protection and a DOT-approved helmet.
• Use common sense by riding sober, obeying all speed limits and allowing enough time to react to potentially dangerous situations.
• Know your motorcycle and conduct a pre-ride check.
• Practice safe riding techniques and know how to handle your motorcycle in adverse road and weather conditions.
According to Wolf, riders can learn more by taking classes through the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP), which are free to Pennsylvania residents who have a valid motorcycle permit or license as required.
To learn more or enroll, visitwww.pamsp.com or call 1-800-845-9533. A motorcycle practice test can be found at www.pa.gov, and a motorcycle operator’s manual at www.dmv.pa.gov.
