Sharing the road responsibly

• Due to their smaller size, motorcycles are less visible to other vehicles on the road, which raises their risk for being involved in traffic accidents. 
• Intentionally looking for motorcycles will keep both drivers and riders safer when sharing the road.
• It is everyone’s responsibility to not only drive safely, but also be aware of all other vehicles on the road with you.
• To reduce the number of injuries and fatalities on our nation’s highways, you should always practice safe driving and riding, including:
  • Always observe all traffic laws and obey the speed limit.
  • Ride and drive alcohol- and drug-free.
  • Avoid any distractions that could put yourself or others at risk.
  • Watch for and yield to motorcyclists, especially when turning at intersections.

Safe motorcycling

• Riding a motorcycle is different than driving a car and staying safe on your motorcycle requires balance, coordination, and good judgement.
• It is recommended that all riders take motorcycle education and training courses to learn basic riding skills and how to stay safe in traffic.
• Before each ride, check that your tires, controls, lights, and signals are functioning properly.
• Motorcycle laws vary by state, but whether required by law or not, when riding you should ALWAYS wear personal protective gear, including:
  • DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet
  • Riding jacket and padded gloves
  • High-visibility/reflective vest
  • Weatherproof, lightweight boots
  • Earplugs
• To help keep yourself safe, always maintain awareness of other vehicles on the road and assume they don’t see you.

IMPORTANT: Please remember that intersections can be especially dangerous for motorcycle riders. Be sure to follow these three steps when you approach intersections:

1. Search for hazards, such as:
   1. Other motorists
   2. Road debris, imperfections, or contaminants
   3. Unusual situations
2. Evaluate any hazards you see and determine if you need to take action to avoid them.
3. Execute on your avoidance plan by:
   1. Changing position (within your lane or changing lanes)
   2. Adjusting your speed
   3. Maximizing your visibility
   4. Signaling your intentions to other motorists.

Learn more

• The National Safety Council website offers links to a variety of resources on Motorcycle Roadway Safety, including:
  • Training and educational videos
  • Pre-ride inspection checklist
  • General guides and information for riding safely
• Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website for tips on choosing the right motorcycle helmet.