May is Motorcycle Safety Month

SALISBURY, Md. – May kicked off the start of Motorcycle Safety Month. On May 1st, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle and other partners kicked off Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month at the agency’s Salisbury Branch. They offered so many things such as local community organizations and vendors. They also provided safety-related information to help keep yourself and others safe on the road. Each year in Maryland, more than 70 motorcycle riders and passengers are killed in traffic crashes and nearly 1,000 are injured.

Deputy Director Ashley Millner stated “Its really about promoting awareness, not only the motorcycle rider, but also the driver and making sure we are all looking out for each other. We know that approximately 80 percent of motorcycle related fatalities have been between May and October. So this is a very dangerous time obviously. With following some simple tips we can all look out for each other and arrive home safely”

For drivers, sharing the road begins with the understanding that bicyclists and motorcyclists have the same rights as you. They also face unique safety challenges, such as being smaller and less visible. Look for cyclists where vehicles do not appear, like before making a left-hand turn at an intersection. Also, be aware that motorcyclists may have to downshift and weave to avoid bumps and road hazards.

Here are some more tips to keep yourself and other drivers safe.
-always check your blind spot
-be extra cautious when passing
-stay in your lane
-use your signals
-always take that second look if your unsure