The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) wants to remind all motorists to Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles. The NHTSA has designed this campaign to help motorists understand standard motorcycle driving behaviors, and learn how to drive safely around motorcycles on our roadways.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness is very important during warmer weather, since motorcyclists are more prevalent. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are significantly overrepresented in traffic crashes and fatalities each year. In fact, per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are about 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in accidents, and are 4 times more likely to be injured. It is essential that drivers pay complete attention on the roads: Even the smallest momentary lapse in a vehicle driver’s awareness can result in the death of an unseen motorcyclist.

In 2019, there were 5,014 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes; a decrease from 2018 (5,038). Motorcyclist deaths accounted for 14% of the total highway fatalities that year. Just like motorists buckling their seat belts, using a DOT-compliant helmet can drastically increase survival rates in the event of an impact. NHTSA data estimates that helmets saved 1,872 motorcyclists’ lives in 2017, and that 749 more lives could have been saved if all motorcyclists had worn their helmets.

Tips for Motorists
Because vehicle drivers control a much larger machine, it is crucial that they keep a close watch for motorcyclists who may be riding nearby. Drivers may 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 following distance – three to four seconds – when behind a motorcycle. This gives them more time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.
• Never drive distracted or impaired.

Tips for Motorcyclists
Just as motorists in cars or trucks, motorcyclists must take extra precautions to guard against drivers who may not see them. Motorcyclists may follow these tips to prevent a fatal crash with a vehicle:

• Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and other protective gear.
• Obey all traffic laws and be properly licensed.
• Use hand and turn signals at every lane change or turn.
• Wear brightly colored clothes and reflective tape to increase visibility.
• Ride in the middle of the lane where you will be more visible to drivers.
• Never ride distracted or impaired.

More information on motorcycle safety.