The warm summer weather provides ideal riding conditions for motorcyclists, so it will soon become more common for them to be sharing the roadways. This is especially true in Ohio, which ranks as one of the top states in the country for motorcycle use. Unfortunately, the increased number of riders during this season also presents a higher risk of motorcycle crashes. As such, before getting on your bike or behind the wheel, it’s a good idea to review the following safety precautions to protect yourself from serious injury.

Driver Safety Tips 

Motorcyclists have the same rights to the road as all other motorists. It’s your responsibility as the driver of a passenger vehicle to be aware of riders that are in close proximity and adjust your driving habits accordingly. Here are a few steps you can take to avoid causing a motorcycle crash:

• Avoid Distractions: Taking your attention away from the road, even for just a few seconds, can have hazardous results. Focus on keeping your eyes, mind, and hands on the task of driving and eliminate distractions, such as texting, eating, grooming, changing the radio station, or setting the navigation.
• Be Cautious When Changing Lanes & Making Turns: Always use the signals to inform motorcyclists of your intention to change lanes or make a turn. Take the time to check the blind spots carefully before proceeding with any maneuver.  
• Don’t Follow Too Closely: Motorcycles should be given additional following room, as they can stop much more quickly than a car. If you’re too close behind, you won’t have enough time to stop before rear-ending the bike in front of you.

Rider Safety Tips 

Riding a motorcycle makes you more vulnerable to severe injuries resulting from an accident. Practicing these defensive driving techniques is the most effective way to prevent motorcycle crashes and ensure you make it to your destination safely: 

• Don’t Split Lanes: Though you may fit next to a vehicle in the same lane, you should never travel side by side. This will limit your options to get out of the way quickly if something gets in your path.
• Stay Out of Blind Spots: The small silhouette of a motorcycle can easily slip into a driver’s blind spot. Avoid riding alongside a vehicle for any length of time, and know that if you can’t see a driver, they can’t see you.
• Make Yourself Visible: Since motorcycles are more difficult to see than larger vehicles, you must do what you can to increase your visibility. Always ride with the lights on, and refrain from wearing dark colors.  

If you have been involved in a motorcycle crash due to another motorist’s negligence, contact The Law Office of Gregory S. Young in Cincinnati, OH. They have been advocating for the rights of personal injury victims throughout Ohio and Kentucky since 1958 and will fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. Call (513) 721-1077 24/7 to schedule a free case evaluation, or visit their website for more information on how they can benefit your case.