July Is Women's Motorcycle Month

OFF THE WIRE
July Is Women’s Motorcycle Month
Safety Tips for Female Riders

HAUPPAUGE, NY (July 7, 2011) – Each year, July is designated Women’s Motorcycle Month. Women comprise a third of those graduating from motorcycle safety classes, even though they represent only 10 percent of the riding population.

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration states that more than two-thirds of fatal motorcycle crashes involve a motorcycle and another vehicle. “It is important for motorists to know that their actions affect the safety of motorcyclists,” says Allstate New York spokesperson Krista Conte.

A motorist and a motorcyclist may take different actions for the same driving or highway situation. The NHTSA suggests the following:

·         Respect the motorcyclist:
Remember the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the privileges of any vehicle on the roadway. Give the motorcyclist a full lane of travel.
·         Look out:
Look for the motorcyclist on the highway, at intersections, when a motorcyclist may be making a left turn, and when a motorcyclist may be changing lanes. Clearly signal your intentions.
·         Anticipate a motorcyclist's maneuver:
Obstructions (debris, potholes, etc.) that you may ignore or not notice can be deadly for a motorcyclist. Predict evasive actions.
·         Allow plenty of space:
Don't follow a motorcycle too closely. Allow enough room for the motorcyclist to take evasive actions.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via http://www.allstate.com/ and 1-800 Allstate®.