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SAFETY TIPS ALLOWING MOTORISTS AND MOTORCYCLE OPERATORS TO SAFELY SHARE MICHIGAN'S ROADS |
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CAR AND TRUCK DRIVERS ARE URGED TO: |
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· Be aware of cyclists. After Michigan's long winter, drivers are not accustomed to seeing motorcycles, mopeds, and bicycles on the roads. |
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· Share the road. Motorcyclists are entitled to a full lane of traffic, just like another car or truck. Moped and bicycle riders must stay to the right and share a lane. |
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· Keep a safe distance from the cycle. Because of road hazards or other traffic conditions, cyclists may have to swerve or stop suddenly. |
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· Check your blind spots before turning, changing lanes, backing up or parking. Many traffic crashes occur because a driver did not check or see the cyclist. |
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· Be extra alert for motorcycles, mopeds, and bicycles at or near intersections. They are easily overlooked if traffic is heavy or the driver is in a hurry. Pay particular attention when making left turns across traffic, to insure that a cyclist may not be coming straight through. |
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· Use extreme care in passing. Because of the smaller size of a bike, a car or truck passing too fast or too close could blow the cyclist out of control. In addition, a vehicle passing too close to a bike, could throw stones or other road debris at the cyclist. |
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MOTORCYCLE OPERATORS ARE URGED TO: |
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· Keep in mind that weather conditions, road surfaces and fatigue pose greater problems for cyclists than other motorists. |
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· Always wear a helmet. A good quality helmet which fits properly, affords the most protection. Gloves and boots provide added protection. |
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· Wear brightly colored clothing so the cyclist is seen by other drivers. Operation of the cycle's headlight (standard on most later model cycles), also increases the visibility of the cycle. |
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· Assume the driver of the other vehicle does not see the cyclist. Always be prepared to take evasive action. Drive Defensively. |
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· Ride near the center of the lane. Say out of other drivers blind spots. |
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· When riding in groups, do not ride two abreast in a single lane. Ride in a staggered formation, allowing a safe distance to maneuver in an emergency. |
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· Avoid excessive speed when operating the cycle. Slow down at night and during inclement weather, when visibility is usually reduced. |
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· Avoid alcoholic beverages when operating the cycle. |
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· Keep your motorcycle in good operating condition, using the safety and maintenance checks listed in the owners manual as a guide. |
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: |
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For information on a rider safety course near you, contact the Motorcycle Safety Foundation by calling 1-800-447-4700 or visit the Michigan Department of State web site.
May is Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month in Michigan. Let's have a safe and enjoyable riding season by sharing the road. |
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