Drivers reminded to watch out for motorcyclists in warm weather

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — As warmer weather moves in during May, motorcycle safety awareness month reminds the public to look out for all vehicles on the roads.

“We haven’t been on the road for a while so now add motorcyclists to everyone’s daily travel and May is a good month to have awareness to let people know we are back on the road,” said Andy Pavona, Grand Rapids Harley Davidson’s General Manager.

In Michigan in 2022, 173 motorcyclists were killed in crashes, according to Michigan Traffic Facts.

Monday afternoon, one person died in Kentwood after police say a vehicle and a motorcycle crashed. The Detroit Free Press reported three deadly motorcycle crashes last week.

Drivers and motorcyclists share the road and have similar safety reminders.

“Slow down, check your mirrors twice before you make those lane changes. Stop signs are a big one nowadays so making sure you are using your stop. Checking all four ways to make sure that motorcyclists aren’t coming through,” Pavona said.

Motorcyclists can do their part to increase safety measures. Proper riding gear is important and knowing how to safely handle their ride.

“We have an open-door policy in here to allow our customers to come in here and ask questions, try helmets and coats on,” said Pavona.

As more motorcyclists get back on the road in Michigan, all drivers need to be vigilant. Look out in your rear view and side mirrors, try to anticipate lane changes, and don’t be a distracted driver.

“It’s again knowing that we are sharing the roads with motorcycles so making those fast lane changes, slipping through stop signs, and or just checking your mirrors twice if not three times to see if you see a motorcycle coming,” said Pavona.

Grand Rapids Harley Davidson and Grand Rapids Community College have motorcycle rider courses. The state of Michigan has a list of motorcycle training sites on its website.

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