Be More Aware of Bikes and Motorcycles This May
May is a big month for anything on two wheels. It’s National Bike Month and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. It’s the perfect time of the year to celebrate riding in the open air as the weather gets warmer in the northeast.
National Bike Month was created by The League of American Bicyclists which promotes events throughout the United States in order to encourage more Americans to take up cycling. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) designates May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month to educate bikers and spread the word about safety programs. Elite Towing & Transport Inc. is always there for you if problems do arise. But we want to join these organizations to help you to know more about the rules of the road and make the most of your time on your bike.
Bicycle Safety Rules on Long Island
Many people think of bicycles as something they rode when they were a kid. But cyclists have the same rights on the road as anyone driving a motorized vehicle and they are required to follow the same rules. That means obeying all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings as well as riding in the same direction in which traffic is heading. Like drivers operating a car or a motorcycle, cyclists must always be alert, sober and must not ride erratically. They shouldn’t be texting or be operating electronic devices while out on the road. Cyclists must always be aware of their surroundings for any potential hazards. They must clearly use hand signals when turning or changing lanes.
There are also some safety rules that are unique to cyclists and a very important one is to make sure that you have a helmet. The helmet must be properly fitted and meet the standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Motorists won’t always expect to encounter cyclists on the road and this can be a particular problem at twilight and at night. Cyclists should always make sure they stay visible by wearing bright colors, reflective material and by making sure their bicycles have lights on at night.
Staying Safe on a Motorcycle on Long Island
Motorcyclists also have to be aware of safety issues that are unique to two-wheel vehicles. In addition to obeying all traffic laws, it’s important to make sure that your bike is properly licensed with up to date insurance. Motorcycles must be inspected regularly. Like bicyclists, motorcycle riders are usually required to wear helmets that are compliant with state regulations. Motorcycle operators also need to signal when making turns and lane changes, using turn signals. Bikers should position themselves in lanes in a manner that makes them most visible to other drivers.
Exercising Good Judgment on a Motorcycle
It’s extremely important to know when not to get on a motorcycle. If weather conditions are poor, bikers should strongly consider staying home. Nobody should operate a vehicle if they’re not sober. According to the NHTSA, the percentage of intoxicated motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes is greater than the percentage of intoxicated drivers on our roads.
Whatever mode of transportation you use, please respect the rules of the road and understand that bicycles and motorcycles have as much right to be on the road as you have.
Elite Towing & Transport Inc. Specializes in Motorcycle Towing
Elite Towing & Transport Inc. hopes you enjoy your ride and always know, we’re ready to help when you need it. We specialize in motorcycle towing and we use equipment such as Condor’s motorcycle towing cradles to make sure your bike isn’t damaged while it’s being transported.
We’re around 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offer roadside assistance when you need it. Contact us today!
