For Immediate Release

Thursday, May 26, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-9003
Email: [email protected]

Ashland Police Remind Residents to Share the Road with Motorcyclists

ASHLAND — As the summer months quickly approach and the weather warms up, Chief Craig Davis and the Ashland Police Department are reminding drivers to share the road with motorcyclists.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Reports that, in 2013, there were 4,668 motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes, and an estimated 88,000 who were injured.

“As more people hit the road during the summer months, we want to ensure that all of our residents remain safe, whether in a car or on a motorcycle,” Chief Davis said. “We are urging drivers to be extra cautious of motorcycles on the road, and in turn, motorcyclists should make themselves visible to other drivers.”

To prevent accidents and fatalities, Chief Davis recommends that drivers and motorcyclists follow several safety tips outlined by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Advice to Drivers

• Motorcycles are more difficult to spot than cars because of their smaller profiles and drivers are conditioned to look for other cars, not motorcyclists.
• Don’t follow motorcycles too closely. Traffic, weather, and road conditions require motorcyclists to react differently than drivers, so it is often difficult to judge and predict when riders may take evasive action.
• Drivers must always be aware of their surroundings. Remember: Check twice, save a life.
• Remember that motorcyclists have the same privileges as other drivers. Be sure to give riders a full lane of travel, and always keep a close watch for motorcyclists — especially at intersections and on highways.

You are more likely to be involved in an accident with a motorcycle when:

• 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, and other obstructions may force a motorcyclist to take an action you don’t expect.
• You have an obstructed line of sight. Sport utility vehicles, delivery vans, and large trucks may block motorcyclists from your view.

Advice to Riders

• Don’t assume you are visible to a driver. As a motorcyclist, it is your responsibility to make your presence known to drivers. Select and wear an appropriate helmet with retroreflective materials. A motorcycle helmet is your most valuable piece of protective gear and should be visible to drivers. Wear bright, contrasting protective clothing. If you wear dark clothing, wear a fluorescent vest.
• Use high beams during daylight driving, also consider a modulating headlight.
• Proper lane position is important. It helps drivers see you and protects your riding space. Remember, if you can see a driver in the side-view mirror, the driver can see you. Avoid riding in a driver’s blind spot, and always signal before making a move.

###