For Immediate Release

Friday, May 27, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Newburyport Police and Fire Departments Remind Residents to Share the Road with Motorcycles

NEWBURYPORT — As the weather warms up, Fire Chief Christopher LeClaire and City Marshal Mark Murray remind residents 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.

“Motorcyclists have the same rights as drivers, so be aware of their presence and give riders the same courtesy you would to any other vehicle on the road,” Marshal Murray said. “At the same time, if you are on a motorcycle, avoid riding in drivers’ blind spots and always signal before changing lanes.”

“Whether you’re in a car or on a motorcycle, be alert,” Chief LeClaire said. “Always be a defensive driver and if on a motorcycle, do what you can to make yourself seen to drivers by keeping your headlights on and wearing reflective clothing.”

To prevent accidents and fatalities, Chief LeClaire and Marshal Murray recommend 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.
• 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.
• Anticipate a motorcyclist’s maneuvers. A piece of road debris that poses no threat to a car may be deadly for a motorcyclist. Predict evasive moves a motorcyclist might take by always being aware of your surroundings. Also, don’t follow motorcycles too closely. Allow enough room for the motorcyclist to take evasive actions.

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 retro-reflective 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 headlights while riding on the highway, and use high beams rather than low beams. 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. Never weave between lanes.
• Remember, there is no one safe place to ride. Use lane positioning to be seen and to provide extra space for emergency braking situations or avoidance maneuvers. Never share a lane with a car. Drivers may not expect you alongside their cars and may not be aware of your presence.

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