'Start seeing motorcycles' Nice weather brings return of motorcycles to roads...

OFF THE WIRE
http://www.morrisdailyherald.com/2012/03/19/start-seeing-motorcycles/aqq62n6/
'Start seeing motorcycles' Nice weather brings return of motorcycles to roads

Morris Police Chief Brent Dite is taking steps early to remind local citizens about the importance of traffic consciousness when it comes to the safe operation of motorcycles.
Motorcycles have become extremely popular due to their fuel efficiency, along with the overall enjoyment riders receive by being involved in clubs and riding events.
As the weather improves, more and more motorcyclists are taking to the streets and roadways. With that in mind, pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers of all vehicles, including SUVs, passenger cars or trucks, need to be extra attentive and make sure you "share the road."
A motorcycle is one of the smallest vehicles on our roads, often hidden in a vehicle's blind spot. Everyone needs to be more mindful of their presence in traffic.
It's crucial that motorists and bicyclists always make visual checks for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
Pedestrians should also scan for motorcyclists who might be hidden by other traffic.
Here are some tips to drivers to keep motorcyclists safe on our roadways:
• Remember, the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width — never try to share a lane.
• Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
• Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
• Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, when behind a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. And don't tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.
• Never drive while distracted.
Motorcyclists can increase their own safety by:
• Avoiding riding in poor weather conditions.
• Wearing brightly colored protective gear and a Department of Transportation-compliant helmet.
• Using turn signals for every turn or lane change, even if the rider thinks no one will see it.
• Positioning them in the lane where they will be most visible to other drivers.
• Never driving while impaired.
Motorcycle riding is enjoyable and everyone needs to make a conscious decision to be safe and abide by state laws.
Motorcycles have become extremely popular due to their fuel efficiency, along with the overall enjoyment riders receive by being involved in clubs and riding events.
As the weather improves, more and more motorcyclists are taking to the streets and roadways. With that in mind, pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers of all vehicles, including SUVs, passenger cars or trucks, need to be extra attentive and make sure you "share the road."
A motorcycle is one of the smallest vehicles on our roads, often hidden in a vehicle's blind spot. Everyone needs to be more mindful of their presence in traffic.
It's crucial that motorists and bicyclists always make visual checks for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
Pedestrians should also scan for motorcyclists who might be hidden by other traffic.
Here are some tips to drivers to keep motorcyclists safe on our roadways:
• Remember, the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width — never try to share a lane.
• Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
• Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
• Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, when behind a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. And don't tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.
Never drive while distracted.
Motorcyclists can increase their own safety by:
• Avoiding riding in poor weather conditions.
• Wearing brightly colored protective gear and a Department of Transportation-compliant helmet.
• Using turn signals for every turn or lane change, even if the rider thinks no one will see it.
• Positioning them in the lane where they will be most visible to other drivers.
• Never driving while impaired.
Motorcycle riding is enjoyable and everyone needs to make a conscious decision to be safe and abide by state laws.