May is nationally recognized as Motorcycle and Bicycle Safety Awareness Month, with the coming summer weather meaning more motorcycles and bicycles will be out and about on Thumb roads.
Though the end of May is the unofficial start of summer travel, remember to share the roads and keep an eye out for cyclists of all kinds.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, there were 5,579 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2020, accounting for 14% of the total highway fatalities in 2020. Meanwhile, In 2020 there were 938 bicyclist fatalities, which accounted for 2.4% of all traffic fatalities during the year.
With this in mind, the NHTSA has a few tips and reminders to prevent accidents. Motorcyclists are encouraged to to wear high-visibility personal protective gear and DOT-compliant motorcycle helmets while on the roads, with bicyclists are encouraged to wear helmets and ride in groups to increase visibility if riding on the road.
Bicyclists are also encouraged to stick to dedicated bike paths and lanes. Motorists are reminded to slow down around bicyclists, and to allow motorcycles the full width of a lane at all times.
The NHTSA also encourages all drivers and cyclists to drive sober, within the speed limit, and defensively to increase safety for everyone on the road.
