During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May, the Burbank Police Department reminded drivers to always look twice for motorcycles.
“By practicing safe driving habits and taking shared responsibility on our roads, we can help everyone arrive at their destination safely,” police officials said in a statement.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, there were 6,218 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2022. Motorcyclists were about 22 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and four times more likely to be injured.
Drivers and passengers can keep the following tips in mind:
Drivers
• Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
• Do not follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
• If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful. Be sure that the rider is turning before moving ahead.
Motorcyclists
• Always wear a helmet that’s U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant with eye protection.
• Wear leather or other sturdy clothing such as a jacket, pants, boots with nonskid soles and gloves. Add reflective strips or decals to your clothing and motorcycle to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
• Ride defensively. Don’t assume a driver can see you. Avoid riding in a driver’s blind spot.
• Always keep your lights on, even during the day.
Lastly, no one should never drive or ride distracted or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, police officials said.
First published in the June 1 print issue of the Burbank Leader.
