Motorcycle Safety FAQs for Pennsylvania Motorcyclists

Posted by & filed under car accident, motorcycle accident, The Travis Law Firm Blog, truck accident, wrongful death.

Spring has arrived in Pennsylvania. With the warmer weather, you are likely to see more motorcyclists on the road. Pennsylvania has nearly 811,000 licensed riders. Therefore, it is crucial to take the motorcycle safety FAQs presented by PennDot’s “Live Free Ride Alive” campaign seriously. These motorcycle safety FAQs are for both riders and motorists.

Motorcycle Safety FAQs for Motorcyclists and Motorists

According to PennDot, motorcycle safety tips for riders include:

  • Always wear a U.S. DOT-approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, and face protection
  • Wear protective motorcycle clothing, including motorcycle boots and motorcycle gloves
  • Make sure that other drivers see you by wearing reflective and bright clothing
  • Practice safe driving techniques and monitor road and weather conditions carefully
  • Consider taking a free motorcycle training class through PennDOT’s Motorcycle Safety Program
  • Use hand signals with turn signals to indicate your direction

Special Note for Spring Riding in Pennsylvania – Riders need to watch for a buildup of gravel along roads during the spring. The gravel builds up from winter road maintenance along the edges of roadways and near intersections. If you notice hazardous road conditions because of gravel, call 1-800-FIX-ROAD to report the conditions.

According to PennDot, motorcycle safety tips for motorists include:

  • Motorcycles are smaller and may be more difficult to see, especially in heavy traffic conditions. Motorists need to pay close attention to the road and watch for motorcyclists.
  • Check blind spots and mirrors carefully when changing lane
  • Allow more distance when following a motorcycle to give yourself extra time to avoid a collision if the rider stops or slows suddenly
  • Always allow a rider plenty of room when passing. Do not ride in part of the rider’s lane when passing and leave extra room when changing lanes in front of a motorcycle.

In 2019, 174 motorcyclists lost their lives on Pennsylvania roads. Another 2,860 riders sustained injuries in motorcycle crashes. Everyone on the road has a responsibility and duty of care to obey all traffic laws and operate their vehicles in a manner that does not endanger other people.

Poor Driving Behaviors All Motorists and Riders Should Avoid

There are some poor driving behaviors that motorists and motorcyclists need to avoid to reduce the risk of an accident.

  • Never operate a motorcycle or motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Obey all posted speed limits and reduce speed for road hazards, weather conditions, and congested traffic
  • Always pay attention to the road by avoiding all types of distractions, including texting while driving, talking on a cell phone, etc.

When riders and motorists practice safe driving behaviors, they can reduce the risk of a deadly motorcycle accident.

Call an Erie Motorcycle Accident Attorney Now for a Free Consultation

Even when we follow all motorcycle safety FAQs, accidents still happen. You can do everything correctly on the road and another driver crashes into your bike, causing severe injuries, financial losses, and pain & suffering.

Schedule your free legal consultation with an Erie motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss how we can help you. We fight to hold the motorist who caused your accident financially liable for your injuries and damages. Call (800) 401-2066 today for your free appointment and more information.