SCHP Reminds Motorists: Share the Road With Motorcycles

Studies have shown that in crashes involving motorcyclists and another vehicle, the other vehicle violates the motorcyclist’s right-of-way two-thirds of the time. So, remember to use the “Look Twice” rule. Look once over your shoulder and in your mirrors and then, look again. Practice these additional safety tips:
Intersections: Be especially vigilant of motorcyclists who might be hidden at intersections by buildings, parked vehicles and shrubbery. At stop lights: Avoid turning left on a yellow light. Never try to beat oncoming motorcyclists by making a turn into their path.
Residential Driveways: Automobiles should be especially careful backing from driveways. The driver may have difficulty seeing an oncoming motorcycle.
Determining Speed and Distance of Motorcycle: Determining speed of an oncoming motorcycle is difficult especially at night or in inclement weather. When you spot a motorcycle, make sure you have accurately judged its speed and distance. Always give the scene a second look.
Passing and Being Passed: Both motorcyclist and vehicle should avoid accelerating when being passed. Both rider and driver should use mirrors and head checks to ensure the passing maneuver can be done safely. Vehicles should avoid returning to the original lane too soon. This could cause the motorcyclist to swerve into traffic to avoid you or run off the roadway.
Following Distance: Tailgating is one of the leading causes of collisions for motorcyclists and motorists often resulting in motorcyclists striking the rear of another vehicle and being thrown from their bikes.
For more driving safety tips, log onto www.schp.org or to request a safety presentation, call the Office of Community Relations at 803-896-7920. Safety Tips provided by the SC Department of Public Safety and the national Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

SC Highway Patrol
reminds motorcyclists
to drive defensively

Most motorcycle deaths in South Carolina result from failure to yield on the part of either the motorcyclist or vehicle. The collision is often complicated by the motorcyclist’s speed and/or failure to use a helmet. That means you – the motorcyclist – must take your safety into your own hands. Remember these tips:
Intersections: Before riding through an intersection, check traffic from the right, left, rear and front. Especially check oncoming traffic for vehicles turning left; 25 percent of all motorcycle crashes are caused by the other vehicle turning left across a motorcyclist’s path.
Residential Driveways: Automobiles backing out of driveways may have difficulty seeing an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcyclists should especially be aware of this hazard in residential areas by reducing speed; ensuring the driver sees them and being prepared to stop quickly.
Passing: Before passing, you should ensure your motorcycle is in the left portion of the lane at a safe following distance. Avoid crowding the automobile.
Road Hazards: Potholes, railroad tracks, oil slicks, puddles, road debris, ruts and other hazards may require sudden lane changes or result in a loss of control. Motorcyclists should scan ahead. Watch other vehicles for reactions to problems and maintain an appropriate following distance.
Judgment: Motorcyclists must add the skills of balance and heightened awareness to the other skills necessary for safe vehicle operation. Motorcyclists must realize that what might be a minor crash in a motor vehicle can be deadly for them – especially without helmets. That is why it is imperative that motorcyclists’ judgment is not impaired by alcohol or drugs.
For more driving safety tips, log onto www.schp.org or to request a safety presentation, call the Office of Community Relations at 803-896-7920. Safety Tips provided by the SC Department of Public Safety and the national Motorcycle Safety Foundation.