OFF THE WIRE
http://www.times-standard.com/letters/ci_20508294/share-road-motorcyclists
Share the road with motorcyclists
As a motorcycle enthusiast, I respectfully remind the people of Humboldt County that federal, state and local highway safety, law enforcement and motorcycle organizations shall proclaim May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.”
”Motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and privileges as any motor vehicle on the roadway. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is a national initiative aimed at getting motorists and motorcyclists to 'share the road' with each other.” (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.)
As summer months approach, bringing warmer weather conditions and rising fuel costs, more people are taking to the road on two wheels in order to go to work as well as take part in tourist activities. Not everyone has the same or adequate skills for motorcycling, but even the most skilled and well prepared rider can encounter an inattentive driver operating a four- wheeled vehicle with negative results, usually for the motorcyclist.
With motorcycles fatalities on the rise, it is important to remember that motorcyclists are more vulnerable than those in other types of vehicles. Motorists should always look for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
PLEASE avoid distractions such as texting.
It is just as important that riders be visible to other motorists and obtain proper training and licensing, wear the appropriate protective gear, and always respect the rules of the road. Phylis Geller
Arcata
