Motorcycle Safety: Sheriff Provides Tips for Motorists and Motorcyclists

As the warm weather and motorcycle season approaches, DuPage County Sheriff John Zaruba reminded drivers of 4 to 18 wheel vehicles and motorcyclists that they need to be alert and aware of the other traffic around them.

In a press release, Zaruba said, “With current economic times and the high gas prices, we are seeing an increase of cost efficient vehicles on the roadways. Motorists and motorcyclists need to be reminded to be aware of each other and not to assume that safety is being considered by one or the other. I hope that these tips can be a guide for motorists and motorcyclists."

What all drivers should know about motorcycles:

• Motorcyclists often slow down by not activating the brake light. Allow more following distance, say 3 or 4 seconds.
• Turn signals on a motorcycle usually are not self-canceling, thus some riders, sometimes forget to turn them off after a turn or lane change.
• Because of its small size, a motorcycle may look farther away than it is. When checking traffic to turn at an intersection, predict a motorcycle is closer than it looks.
• Because of its small size, a motorcycle can easily be hidden by objects, take an extra moment to thoroughly check traffic, whether you’re changing lanes or turning at intersections.
• Stopping distance for motorcycles is nearly the same as for cars, but slippery pavement makes quick stopping difficult, allow more of a following distance.
• Carrying a passenger complicates a motorcyclist’s task. Balance is more difficult. Stopping distance is increased. Maneuverability is reduced. Predict more problems when you see two on a motorcycle, especially near intersections.

Safety tips for new and veteran motorcyclists:

• Although Illinois does not mandate wearing a motorcycle helmet, use of approved DOT (Department of Transportation) helmets, protective body wear, boots and gloves is strongly recommended.
• Don’t drink and ride. Alcohol slows reactions and impairs function.
• Improve your visibility by wearing brightly colored clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night.
• Avoid riding in the “blind spot” of the vehicle in front of you.
• When riding with another motorcycle, stagger your position. This allows both riders to take evasive action safely should the need occur.
• Don’t become fixed on what’s just beyond your front tire. Be aware of what’s ahead. Safe riders remain aware of developing situations 12-16 seconds ahead.
• In the event emergency braking is required, remember motorcycles have far better stopping capabilities than cars and trucks.
• Before proceeding through an intersection, check left, check front, check right, and check left again. Checking left first is important because this is the first lane you cross. Continue to scan in the intersection in a clockwise pattern, checking traffic approaching in front, in case that vehicle turns left in front of you.
• Don’t lend your motorcycle to someone without knowing their skill level and making sure they have the proper license.