May - Motorcycle Awareness Month
1. Wear Proper Safety Gear:
Always wear a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmet to protect your head and reduce the risk of severe head injuries. Additionally, wear protective gear such as eye protection, sturdy boots, gloves, and durable clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect against abrasions and impact.
2. Get Proper Training:
Take a motorcycle safety course or training program to learn and enhance your riding skills. These courses cover essential techniques, defensive riding strategies, and provide hands-on practice to improve your overall riding abilities.
3. Obey Traffic Laws:
Follow all traffic laws, rules, and regulations. Adhere to speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs. Be aware of your surroundings, check for blind spots, and always use your turn signals when changing lanes or making turns.
4. Be Visible:
Make sure you are visible to other motorists on the road. Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing, and use your motorcycle's headlights both during the day and night. Position yourself in the lane where you can be easily seen by other drivers.
5. Maintain Your Motorcycle:
Regularly inspect and maintain your motorcycle to ensure it is in good working condition. Check the tires, brakes, lights, signals, fluids, and controls before each ride. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and address any mechanical issues promptly.
6. Ride Defensively:
Assume that other drivers may not see you or may not anticipate your movements. Stay vigilant and be prepared to react to unexpected situations. Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, and constantly scan the road ahead for potential hazards.
7. Avoid Riding Under the Influence:
Never ride a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substances that impair your judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Alcohol and drugs significantly impair your ability to operate a motorcycle safely.
8. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions:
Adjust your riding style and be cautious when riding in adverse weather conditions such as rain, strong winds, or slippery road surfaces. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and use appropriate signals and braking techniques.
9. Ride within Your Skill Level:
Be aware of your riding limitations and ride at a pace that matches your skills and experience. Gradually improve your abilities and take additional training courses as needed to enhance your riding techniques.
10. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions:
Avoid distractions such as using electronic devices, texting, or engaging in other activities that take your attention away from the road. Stay focused on riding and keep both hands on the handlebars.
Forest Hill - Havre de Grace - Joppa - Parkville
Rosedale - Towson - White Marsh