Distracted Driving Is Deadly Driving
The perils of distracted driving take a
front seat during May, which is designated as national Motorcycle
Awareness Month.
The initiative, supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration, encourages drivers to watch for motorcycles and understand
that motorcycle riders enjoy the same rights and privileges as
operators of other vehicles.
The slogans are everywhere, on billboards and bumper stickers,
badges and T-shirts: "Watch out for motorcycles." "Look twice, save
a life." "Share the road."
But not all motorists heed the warnings. And, with the warmer
temperatures spilling across most of the country in May, the roads
are filling with riders.
Increased Vigilance Is Paramount
"Too many drivers become cocooned in their own world and fail to
notice a motorcyclist in the lane beside them or in oncoming
traffic as they are making a turn," said Rob Dingman, AMA president
and CEO. "Motorcycle Awareness Month is an campaign to remind other
motorists to look around, check your mirrors and intersections,
then check again before beginning a lane change or turn."
Distracted and inattentive driving is increasing the danger for all
motorists, but especially for motorcyclists, who are not protected
by a car's metal structure and airbags. Drivers can avoid crashes
with motorcyclists by taking extra care and looking twice to spot
motorcycles in traffic -- especially at intersections -- respecting
the motorcyclists' space on the road and by not following too
closely. The AMA also strongly encourages motorcyclists to take
training, wear appropriate safety gear and
practice safe riding techniques.
The AMA has long advocated that local and state governments
maintain or increase funding for motorcycle rider education and
motorist awareness programs -- two highly effective strategies to
reduce the likelihood of motorcycle crashes.
Additional Resources
- Video and audio messages can be downloaded at
www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/Resources/PublicServiceAnnouncements.aspx.
- AMA position statements on distracted and inattentive vehicle
operation and rider education, as well as other subjects, can be
found here: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/rights/positionstatements.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world's largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its support of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. For more information, please visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
