“Look Twice for Motorcycles”
With March 20, 2013, marking the first official day of spring, warmer weather and motorcycle riding season will be quickly approaching. Consequently, the Anne Arundel County Police Department would like to remind both drivers and riders of the importance of safe driving behaviors.
The safe travel of vehicles on roadways within our county is a shared responsibility for all operators. Driver and rider education and awareness are part of the Anne Arundel County Police Department’s comprehensive traffic safety plan. Together we can prevent a crash and safeguard all vehicle operators on our roadways.
Tips for Drivers:
• Look twice before crossing, turning from or merging on a roadway
• Check your blind spot when changing lanes
• Concentrate on driving your vehicle
• Avoid all distractions
• You may not be used to seeing motorcycles on the road - Share the road with motorcycles
Tips for Riders:
• Prepare your motorcycle for the road by conducting a safety check prior to riding
• Wear proper riding / protective gear
• Remember that your skills may be rusty after not riding for a few months
a.) Warm up by practicing riding for a few minutes in a neighborhood or parking lot
b.) Stretch before riding to reduce muscle fatigue
• Ride responsibly – you control your behavior
• Remember that drivers are not used to seeing you on the roadways
a.) Consider high-visibility clothing
b.) Consider adding additional legal lighting to increase visibility
c.) Look twice when making a maneuver
• Ride safely and within your ability
Chief of Police Larry W. Tolliver understands the importance of motorcycle safety and will soon be implementing a pilot motorcycle crash reduction program. The program will invite motorcyclists to participate in rider skills days where they will receive advice from police motor officers. This program is aimed at making riding in Maryland safer and more enjoyable.
For more information regarding motorcycle safety and enforcement contact Lieutenant David Ennis, Commander of the Traffic Safety Section at 410-222-8578.
