DAYTONA, FL (WFLA) — With Daytona Bike Week starting this weekend, AAA reminds motorcyclists to drive safely and other drivers to look out for bikers on the roadways.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Florida leads the nation in motorcycle fatalities. And over the next couple of weeks especially, drivers should expect to see more motorcyclists on the roadways. Thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts are expected to roar into Daytona for Bike Week.
This year is the 75th anniversary of Daytona Bike Week, running March 5-12, 2016 with a slate of parties, free demo rides, and massive bike show. Get all the details here.
AAA says one out of five (or 19 percent) of vehicle fatalities in the State of Florida involves a motorcycle, while motorcyclists only make up about seven percent of licensed motorists.
One-third (or 32 percent) of motorcyclists in Florida do not think they should be required to wear a helmet when riding.
“Since the repeal of the helmet law in Florida, motorcycle fatalities have more than doubled,” said Karen Morgan, AAA Public Policy Manager says.
The majority of bike riders wear the following safety gear when riding: Helmet (86%); Face Shield or Glasses (81%); Boots (64%); Gloves (63%); and Jacket or vest with protective armor (55%).
Here are safety tips that motorcyclists and other drivers should keep in mind:Safety Tips for Motorists:
• Respect motorcycle riders. Motorcycles are vehicles too and have the same privileges as an automobile, so be sure to give them ample room.
• Look and Listen. Even if a motorcycle is loud, don’t expect to hear it. Actively look for motorcycles in traffic.
• Leave Room. Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the motorcyclists. Uneven terrain, wet roads, and heavy traffic often require a motorcycle rider to react and maneuver differently than automobiles.
• Be aware. Take extra caution when making a left-hand turn, because most automobile-versus-motorcycle crashes occur during left-hand turns.
• Don’t drive distracted. A driver who takes their eyes off the road for two seconds doubles their risk of getting into a crash.Safety Tips for Motorcyclists:
• Wear safety gear. Helmets that meet a high protection standard, eye wear, closed-toe footwear and protective clothing reduce your risk of injury or death in a crash. Remember, the only thing between you and the ground is your protective gear
• Be visible. Keep headlights, marker and taillights on at dusk and dark or rainy weather. Wear bright clothing or put reflective strips on your bike to be more visible to other motorists. Avoid being in the blind spots of cars and trucks by following three to four seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.
• Use sound judgment. Avoid weaving between lanes while riding. Be sure to use your signals and stick to the speed limit.
• Get proper training. Completing a motorcycle safety course can not only make you a better rider, but save you money on your motorcycle insurance.
