Every May, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month highlights the shared responsibility of drivers and motorcyclists to prevent crashes and save lives. While motorcyclists can’t control the actions of other drivers, they can take proactive steps to reduce risks. At the same time, public awareness campaigns across the country remind drivers to be more mindful of motorcycles on the road.
Organizations like the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) work year-round to promote rider safety, but their advocacy efforts increase in May as national attention turns to motorcycle accident prevention.
Drivers Are Urged to Look Twice and Share the Road
Motorcycles are harder to see than passenger vehicles. Their smaller size makes them more likely to be hidden in a driver’s blind spot, especially when vehicles are changing lanes, turning, or merging. Inattentive driving can easily lead to serious or even fatal collisions with motorcyclists.
One of the key themes of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is: “Look twice, save a life.” Drivers are reminded to check mirrors and blind spots carefully, allow motorcyclists extra following distance, and avoid distractions behind the wheel.
Rear-end collisions, unsafe lane changes, and failure to yield are all common causes of crashes involving motorcycles, and most of them are preventable with better driver awareness.
AMA Pushes for Safer Roads and Smarter Policies
The AMA uses this month to amplify its advocacy efforts, especially around emerging technologies and legislation that affect rider safety. A major concern involves automated driving systems (ADS). These technologies are still being tested and refined, and motorcyclists are at increased risk when these systems fail to detect smaller vehicles properly.
The AMA also warns drivers not to become over-reliant on driver-assist systems, reminding the public that these tools are not a substitute for staying alert and engaged.
Another key initiative is the push for lane filtering laws. Lane filtering allows motorcyclists to travel between vehicles in slow or stopped traffic. This practice can reduce the risk of rear-end crashes, especially in congested areas.
Motorcyclists Are Also Encouraged to Stay Vigilant
While much of the focus is on driver responsibility, motorcyclists must also take safety seriously. Even a minor miscalculation can lead to devastating consequences. Wearing proper protective gear, completing rider safety courses, and staying visible to other vehicles are all critical steps.
Motorcyclists also need to be aware of how insurance companies may try to shift blame after a crash. Even when a motorcyclist is not at fault, insurers may attempt to reduce or deny compensation by alleging rider negligence. That’s why it’s crucial for injured riders to seek legal representation early.
Protect Your Rights with Help from a Montgomery County Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Bikers Have Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact a Montgomery County motorcycle accident lawyer at Bikers Have Rights. Call 215-525-1616 or 877-333-0300 or complete an online form to schedule a free consultation. Our office is conveniently located in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, and we proudly represent clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.