Updated 07/16/2008 09:30 AM
Motorcycle safety for the summer
ONONDAGA COUNTY, N.Y. -- Onondaga County is hoping to spread a safety message to everyone on the road. Keep an eye out for motorcycles.
Last year New York State saw 192 fatal motorcycle accidents. About half of all motorcycle crashes involve another motor vehicle, and many of them happen when a driver turns left in front of a motorcycle.
When a motorcycle makes a turn, the turn signal doesn't automatically go off like it does in a car, so drivers should never assume that a motorcycle is turning, because the driver may have accidentally left the blinker on.
Motorcycles can also be easily hidden in a car's blind spot, so be cautious when you're changing lanes.
Also, never assume that because a motorcycle is smaller it needs less room on the road.
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"One of the problems I think a lot of people don't realize is that a motorcycle has the same rights and responsibilities on the road as a regular vehicle. And we're supposed to be giving that motorcyclist a full lane width to maneuver, and not trying to go along side," said Ann Barnett, Onondaga County Public Health Educator.
It's not just people driving cars who need to be aware. Motorcyclists themselves need to make sure they're taking every precaution on the road.
There were more than 4,200 accidents last year, and about half of the drivers involved either didn't have a motorcycle license or weren't properly licensed.
The motorcycles also need to be inspected at least once a year.
If you're going to be on the road, it’s suggested drivers take motorcycle safety courses to sharpen their skills and learn to avoid accidents.
Proper attire on the road also helps protect drivers in case of an emergency.
"Wearing the full gear. Full head gear. You know, I know a lot of the motorcyclists like to use the half helmets and things, but a full head helmet really can go a long way," said Barnett.
New York State law requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear helmets.
Motorcycles have the right to use a full lane on the road, but two motorcycles can ride side-by-side in a lane if they want.