Winter is finally over. The sun is getting hotter, the birds are chirping, and kids all over have one thing on their minds – summer break. For motorcyclists, the end of winter has an entirely new meaning, however. Just as kids are excited to dust off their pool floaties, motorcyclists are dying to dust off their bikes.

As the seasons change and the hum of school buses is replaced by the grumble of motorcycles, it’s important for drivers to recognize the added dangers of motorcycle season. Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable to the elements and road conditions than a passenger vehicle and face a greater likelihood of suffering serious injury or fatality in the event of an accident.

To keep your family and others safe on the road safe during motorcycle season, it’s important to follow the following safety guidelines:

Don’t Drive Impaired

Driving while tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol is the first rule of operating any vehicle regardless of the season. Not only are you putting yourself at risk, but you are also jeopardizing the lives of other drivers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians.

Four-Second Rule

One of the most straightforward things you can do while driving is to maintain a safe distance behind the vehicles and motorcycles in front of you – it can save lives. To ensure that a safe distance is being maintained, honor the four-second rule.

Check Blind Spots

Motorcycles are much smaller than cars, making them very easy to miss when checking your blind spots. It’s important to make sure that your mirrors are properly adjusted and that you always check your blind spots to prevent an accidental run-in – especially before changing lanes.

Put the Phone Away

Cell phone use while driving is everywhere you look – literally – look at the cars next door to you at the next stoplight. Do not be a part of the problem, especially during motorcycle season. If you cannot resist picking up your phone while driving, simply turn it off or put it away from arm’s reach.

Be Aware of the Volume

There’s nothing like rolling the windows down and cranking the tunes up, however, one of the easiest ways to tell if a motorcycle is nearby is by using your ears. When driving with the volume up, it makes it much harder to hear what’s going on around you, therefore, drastically increases the chances of approaching motorcycles going unnoticed.

Do Your Part

If you have a driver’s license or permit, it’s important that you do your part while on the road. Winter driving can be dangerous, but warm weather driving comes with its own set of risks including motorcyclists.

In addition to driving defensively and following best practices when on the road, it’s critical that your vehicle is insured. Not only is it the law, but insurance coverage protects you and the other party in the event of an accident.

If you are already insured and shopping around or need new coverage, please Contact Us today for a free quote.