Play it smart during prime motorcycle season

    We’re in the thick of summer, so that means there are a lot more motorcycles on our roadways. So that is this month’s topic.
    I was a motor officer for the state patrol for 11 years, so I have a few insights when dealing with this topic. No matter what angle or side you pick on the subject, it always comes down to one important item: Safety for everyone involved is paramount.
    When it comes to motorcycles, they are smaller and quicker than other vehicles and have ways of hiding in the blind spots of drivers. When driving, do a double look of your blind spots to make sure a motorcycle has not slipped into that hidden area. Motorcycle riders, make sure you aren’t hanging out in the blind spot. Remember if you can’t see them, they can’t see you.
    At intersections, it’s important for riders to make sure they have eye contact with other motorists so you know they are aware you are there. This is especially true when making left turns.
    Drivers, make sure you maintain an adequate following distance behind motorcycles. Rear-ending a motorcycle can be deadly to the rider. Motorcycles are legally entitled to their own lane of traffic. In no situation are you allowed to drive or pass a motorcycle while in the same lane. The same goes for the motorcycle rider. Just because you are smaller does not mean you get to pass a car in the same lane.
    From my experience of riding, I know it’s fun to really come in fast and low on the lean when navigating tight curves, but it is dangerous. If you’re in the curve and run across an animal or object in the roadway, odds are you are going to hit it or at least go down hard. Use caution when riding in the hills. One of the most common reasons for single motorcycle crashes that I investigated is going too fast around curves.

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