Article for For May/June:   

 To coin a phrase: Motorcycles are everywhere. This month (and next), we feature some tips gathered from the Registry of Motor Vehicles website about tips for sharing the road. 

First off, automobile drivers-not motorcyclists-are responsible for more than two-thirds of car/bike crashes. Many times, drivers don't see the motorcyclist until it's too late to avoid a crash. Motorcycles are already more difficult to spot than cars because of their smaller profile. Drivers are conditioned to look for other cars, not bikes. (a similar reaction happens with many school bus related accidents-drivers comment they "didn't see" the school bus when they hit it.) 

Traffic, pedestrians, weather, sand and road conditions require motorcyclists to react differently than drivers in cars. This makes it often difficult to judge and predict when riders may take evasive action. 

You are more likely to be involved in an accident with a motorcycle in the following situations: You are making a left turn in front of a rider. A motorcyclist is riding in your blind spot. There are hazardous road conditions-potholes, wet leaves, railroad tracks, sand, to name a few. You have an obstructed line of sight-such as SUV's, delivery vans, and other things that may block the cyclist from your view. 

Motorcyclists have the same privileges as other drivers. A piece of road debris that poses no threat to a driver in a car or truck can be deadly to a motorcyclist. Be aware of your surroundings, and don't follow motorcyclists too closely. Give them enough room to take evasive actions, if necessary. It's part of being courteous to other drivers. 

If you're a rider, don't assume you are visible to a driver. Select and wear an appropriate DOT approved helmet, preferably with reflective tape. Opt for lighter colored, protective clothing. (Notice this does not fit the usual "biker" 's affection for black leather, and, for you younger folk, T-shirts , shorts, and sandals are not considered protective gear. Sorry, man.) Use headlights when riding on the highway. If you can see a driver in the side view mirror, the driver can see you. Always signal before making a move, and don't weave between lanes. There is no one safe place to ride. Use lane positioning to be seen, and leave enough space for emergency braking or avoidance maneuvers. Drivers may not expect you alongside their cars, and may not be aware of your presence.  Remember, when it comes to crashing, the road and the car will win. Ride safe!