SUPPORT mot rcycle awareness LOOK FOR BIKERS LETS NOT MEET BY ACCIDENT! COMING SOON TO A MIRROR NEAR YOU. SHARE THE ROAD. D May is Motorcycle Awareness Month a time for "sharing the road". May marks the beginning of riding season for many motorcyclists in America and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. ABATE if IL, Inc. reminds all motorists that Motorcyclists' Safety Is Everyone's Safety. By following safe driving and riding practices and sharing them with others, all motorists can help reduce the number of motorcyclist fatalities on America's roads. Key Safety Tips for Motorcyclists and Drivers To prevent unfortunate incidents, Open Roads ABATE of IL, Inc. urge motorcyclists and drivers to adopt safety measures that can reduce the risk of accidents: For Motorcyclists: Wear Protective Gear: Wear proper riding gear from head to toe. Protective Wear Protective Gear: Wear proper riding gear from head to toe. Protective clothing (leathers, boots, helmet if you choose) that have abrasion-resistant material and extra armor for better protection can minimize injuries in case of a fall or crash. Stay Visible: Use reflective gear and keep your headlights on to make yourself more visible to other drivers, especially during dusk or dawn. Always have your headlights on, day and night, and avoid riding in the blind spots of other vehicles. Flash your brake light when slowing and before stopping. Motorcycles are pretty narrow and are not seen as quickly on the side or rear- view mirrors. Do not tailgate. Practice Defensive Driving: Be aware of your surroundings, anticipate the actions of other drivers, and maintain a safe distance. Follow the rules of the road: Riding respectfully - and legally - creates a safer environment for everyone. Unexpected maneuvers could startle or confuse others and cause a crash. Before you ride, look over your bike: Remember T-CLOCS. Inspect your tire and wheels (T), controls (C), d other fluids (O), chassis (C), and stands (S). Your gear cannot protect you if it's torn or you chose not to wear it. Take a safety course: Courses are offered in all states and ensure you practice the maneuverability needed to ride safely on the road. Practice makes perfect, so before you find yourself in a situation and panicked about your next move, have the necessary skills under your belt to handle yourself appropriately and your bike. Drivers aren't 'out to get you.' If one pulls out in front of you, most likely, they didn't see you and meant no harm. Responding with road rage doesn't help anyone. If it seems they are driving aggressively, give them more space and/or let them go ahead of you. Avoid alcohol when riding - alcohol is one of the leading factors in motorcycle crashes and fatalities. It greatly reduces your ability to see other vehicles early enough to avoid them; not to mention your judgment, reaction time, coordination, and balance. For Drivers: FACT: Car drivers often do not see us in traffic. Expect them NOT to see you. This means being prepared for the oncoming car to turn in front of you. This means being prepared for the car to change lanes into your space. This means taking action by adjusting your speed, adjusting your position, and communicating with traffic as needed to make yourself less vulnerable and give you more time to react. FACT: Most crashes occur when a vehicle driver turning left fails to notice an oncoming motorcyclist. Take steps to be more visible. You might think, "Why should I have to do that - they are the ones that should see me!" True. But who suffers if they don't see you? Take a look at your riding gear and your bike - how visible are you? If you are all in dark colors, you can be difficult to see. Light colors, extra lights, and retro-reflective material on your jacket, helmet, and/or bike can really help you stand out. Be cautious at intersections and make sure to look twice before turning, especially left. FACT: When there is a crash, we are much more likely to get hurt. Check Blind Spots: Motorcycles can easily be obscured by objects or blind spots. Always check twice before changing lanes or turning. Because of the narrow stature of a motorcycle, they are not as visible as a full-size vehicle and can be easily hidden in blind spots, such as door or roof panels, or masked by objects or backgrounds. Take the extra time to look closely for motorcycles before changing lanes or making turns. Try not to get emotionally involved. If someone cuts you off, turns in front of you, or tries to change lanes into you -give them the benefit of the doubt that they didn't do it on purpose. The main reason for this is that when we get mad, we make bad decisions. Let's face it - racing up beside them and flipping them off really doesn't accomplish anything except maybe make THEM mad, too. Use Signals: Make your intentions clear by using turn signals well in advance of making a turn or lane change. Be Patient: Give motorcycles the full lane width-never try to share a lane. Yield to motorcyclists, especially while turning at intersections. Actively look for motorcyclists: Motorcyclists can easily be hidden in blind spots or by other vehicles, bushes, trees, or roadway signs, so use your eyes and mirrors to check all around you before maneuvering into or around traffic. Focus on driving: Put down the phone; don't let pets and passengers distract you. Riding When It's HOT - The Facts: Hot weather drains your energy, so you will become fatigued more quickly Exposed skin will cause you to dehydrate more quickly than covered skin Give two-wheelers some space: Don't tailgate or get too close when you are next to riders. Give them space to maneuver and adjust to roadway conditions. Keep it in the vehicle: Don't throw trash or cigarettes out the window. Make sure cargo is secured so it doesn't fall onto the road and become a hazard. Depth Perception: Motorcycles, because of their narrow stature, often appear further away in a mirror. When noticing motorcycles in a mirror, always assume they are closer than they are. Riders often change position within their lane - this is normal and is one of their ways of adjusting for changing conditions to improve their safety. Avoid alcohol when driving - it greatly reduces your ability to see other vehicles (especially small ones) early enough to avoid them, your judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Fast moving air that is hotter than your body temperature will not cool you down Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke are real possibilities and can be life threatening When a rider overheats, they start to lose both the mental AND physical skills they need to identify and deal with hazards The Strategies: Take breaks frequently so you (and your passenger) can cool off in the shade or in an air conditioned room - and drink plenty of fluids Wear riding gear that covers your skin to reduce dehydration Consider wetting down your shirt under your riding jacket - this can work like a "swamp cooler" and keep you more comfortable Safe driving and riding practices from all road users - drivers and riders alike will help reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on our nation's highways. Observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit. Let's practice sharing the road. Enjoy the summer riding - be alert and ride within your limits. Some facts to consider: . Motorcycles are harder to see than cars. Look twice for bikes. Riding When It's COLD - The Facts: Cold weather drains your energy, so you will become fatigued more quickly Much of our body heat is lost through the head when it's cold out. A helmet can not only provide comfort and injury protection, but can help you stay warm as well When a rider gets cold they can experience hypothermia - a condition that causes slowed mental and physical reactions, as well as the loss of smooth muscle control When you are riding, dress for visibility (that all-black outfit can make you even harder to see). When riders and drivers collide, the rider loses. It's just physics - big wins. While the rider generally takes the brunt of the impact, imagine how you would feel to be that driver...there are NO winners. Motorcyclists are your neighbors, your co-workers, maybe your family and friends. We are you. There are over 7 million motorcyclists in this country - odds are you know some. Once you know that someone in your life rides, you'll start to see more of us. Then we all win. The Strategies: Take breaks frequently so you (and your passenger) can warm up in a heated area Wear multiple layers to help trap warm air close to your body Consider heated clothing (vests, jackets, chaps, socks, gloves, etc.) to fight off the cold (remember that unless you have your own source of heat - the cold will eventually win). Issues & Tips: Issue: Motorcyclists are closer than they appear. Their speed and distance are difficult for drivers to judge, especially at intersections. Tip: Always keep a watchful eye and look twice at intersections before you turn or pull out. Issue: Many drivers count on hearing motorcyclists to be aware of their presence, but you can't always hear them, especially when they are oncoming. Tip: Don't just rely on your ears. Practice remaining alert at all times. Issue: Many motorcyclists slow down by downshifting, which won't activate the brake light. This can be dangerous if you don't allow yourself extra space when following a motorcyclist, particularly on busy city streets. Tip: Keep your distance when following a motorcyclist. Issue: Failing to notice or recognize motorcyclist hand signals can lead to crashes. Motorcyclists use hand signals to let vehicles know their intentions on the road. Tip: Know their signals a right turn is signaled by a left arm raised, a left turn by the left arm straight out to the side and a stop by the left arm downward. Issue: 84% of motorcycle-vehicle crashes happen on streets, not highways. A common misconception is that most crashes involving motorcyclists and vehicles occur on highways. Data shows that a large majority take place on city streets where a lot of vehicles are in motion. Tip: Be aware that most motorcycle-vehicle crashes happen on streets. Issue: Distracted driving takes your attention away from the road. Common distractions are handheld mobile devices, GPS devices, eating, drinking or reaching for an object. Tip: Wait until you reach your destination to interact with a mobile device, eat or drink. Keep in mind Michigan's hands-free law states a driver cannot hold or support a phone or other device with any part of their hands arms or shoulders while driving. spring approaches, educate the missss don't lut then be this PROCLAMATIONS SIGNED BY: SEE M SAVE ME SAVE A LIFE MOTORCYCLE RENESS VE AL May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. Start Seeing Motorcycles! www.abate-Lorg/Proclamations Yorkville Mayor John Purcell Montgomery President Matthew Brolley Plano Mayor Mike Rennels SUPPORT mot rcycle awareness LOOK FOR BIKERS LETS NOT MEET BY ACCIDENT ! COMING SOON TO A MIRROR NEAR YOU . SHARE THE ROAD . D May is Motorcycle Awareness Month a time for " sharing the road " . May marks the beginning of riding season for many motorcyclists in America and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month . ABATE if IL , Inc. reminds all motorists that Motorcyclists ' Safety Is Everyone's Safety . By following safe driving and riding practices and sharing them with others , all motorists can help reduce the number of motorcyclist fatalities on America's roads . Key Safety Tips for Motorcyclists and Drivers To prevent unfortunate incidents , Open Roads ABATE of IL , Inc. urge motorcyclists and drivers to adopt safety measures that can reduce the risk of accidents : For Motorcyclists : Wear Protective Gear : Wear proper riding gear from head to toe . Protective Wear Protective Gear : Wear proper riding gear from head to toe . Protective clothing ( leathers , boots , helmet if you choose ) that have abrasion - resistant material and extra armor for better protection can minimize injuries in case of a fall or crash . Stay Visible : Use reflective gear and keep your headlights on to make yourself more visible to other drivers , especially during dusk or dawn . Always have your headlights on , day and night , and avoid riding in the blind spots of other vehicles . Flash your brake light when slowing and before stopping . Motorcycles are pretty narrow and are not seen as quickly on the side or rear- view mirrors . Do not tailgate . Practice Defensive Driving : Be aware of your surroundings , anticipate the actions of other drivers , and maintain a safe distance . Follow the rules of the road : Riding respectfully - and legally - creates a safer environment for everyone . Unexpected maneuvers could startle or confuse others and cause a crash . Before you ride , look over your bike : Remember T - CLOCS . Inspect your tire and wheels ( T ) , controls ( C ) , d other fluids ( O ) , chassis ( C ) , and stands ( S ) . Your gear cannot protect you if it's torn or you chose not to wear it . Take a safety course : Courses are offered in all states and ensure you practice the maneuverability needed to ride safely on the road . Practice makes perfect , so before you find yourself in a situation and panicked about your next move , have the necessary skills under your belt to handle yourself appropriately and your bike . Drivers aren't ' out to get you . ' If one pulls out in front of you , most likely , they didn't see you and meant no harm . Responding with road rage doesn't help anyone . If it seems they are driving aggressively , give them more space and / or let them go ahead of you . Avoid alcohol when riding - alcohol is one of the leading factors in motorcycle crashes and fatalities . It greatly reduces your ability to see other vehicles early enough to avoid them ; not to mention your judgment , reaction time , coordination , and balance . For Drivers : FACT : Car drivers often do not see us in traffic . Expect them NOT to see you . This means being prepared for the oncoming car to turn in front of you . This means being prepared for the car to change lanes into your space . This means taking action by adjusting your speed , adjusting your position , and communicating with traffic as needed to make yourself less vulnerable and give you more time to react . FACT : Most crashes occur when a vehicle driver turning left fails to notice an oncoming motorcyclist . Take steps to be more visible . You might think , " Why should I have to do that - they are the ones that should see me ! " True . But who suffers if they don't see you ? Take a look at your riding gear and your bike - how visible are you ? If you are all in dark colors , you can be difficult to see . Light colors , extra lights , and retro - reflective material on your jacket , helmet , and / or bike can really help you stand out . Be cautious at intersections and make sure to look twice before turning , especially left . FACT : When there is a crash , we are much more likely to get hurt . Check Blind Spots : Motorcycles can easily be obscured by objects or blind spots . Always check twice before changing lanes or turning . Because of the narrow stature of a motorcycle , they are not as visible as a full - size vehicle and can be easily hidden in blind spots , such as door or roof panels , or masked by objects or backgrounds . Take the extra time to look closely for motorcycles before changing lanes or making turns . Try not to get emotionally involved . If someone cuts you off , turns in front of you , or tries to change lanes into you -give them the benefit of the doubt that they didn't do it on purpose . The main reason for this is that when we get mad , we make bad decisions . Let's face it - racing up beside them and flipping them off really doesn't accomplish anything except maybe make THEM mad , too . Use Signals : Make your intentions clear by using turn signals well in advance of making a turn or lane change . Be Patient : Give motorcycles the full lane width - never try to share a lane . Yield to motorcyclists , especially while turning at intersections . Actively look for motorcyclists : Motorcyclists can easily be hidden in blind spots or by other vehicles , bushes , trees , or roadway signs , so use your eyes and mirrors to check all around you before maneuvering into or around traffic . Focus on driving : Put down the phone ; don't let pets and passengers distract you . Riding When It's HOT - The Facts : Hot weather drains your energy , so you will become fatigued more quickly Exposed skin will cause you to dehydrate more quickly than covered skin Give two - wheelers some space : Don't tailgate or get too close when you are next to riders . Give them space to maneuver and adjust to roadway conditions . Keep it in the vehicle : Don't throw trash or cigarettes out the window . Make sure cargo is secured so it doesn't fall onto the road and become a hazard . Depth Perception : Motorcycles , because of their narrow stature , often appear further away in a mirror . When noticing motorcycles in a mirror , always assume they are closer than they are . Riders often change position within their lane - this is normal and is one of their ways of adjusting for changing conditions to improve their safety . Avoid alcohol when driving - it greatly reduces your ability to see other vehicles ( especially small ones ) early enough to avoid them , your judgment , reaction time , and coordination . Fast moving air that is hotter than your body temperature will not cool you down Heat cramps , heat exhaustion , and even heat stroke are real possibilities and can be life threatening When a rider overheats , they start to lose both the mental AND physical skills they need to identify and deal with hazards The Strategies : Take breaks frequently so you ( and your passenger ) can cool off in the shade or in an air conditioned room - and drink plenty of fluids Wear riding gear that covers your skin to reduce dehydration Consider wetting down your shirt under your riding jacket - this can work like a " swamp cooler " and keep you more comfortable Safe driving and riding practices from all road users - drivers and riders alike will help reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on our nation's highways . Observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit . Let's practice sharing the road . Enjoy the summer riding - be alert and ride within your limits . Some facts to consider : . Motorcycles are harder to see than cars . Look twice for bikes . Riding When It's COLD - The Facts : Cold weather drains your energy , so you will become fatigued more quickly Much of our body heat is lost through the head when it's cold out . A helmet can not only provide comfort and injury protection , but can help you stay warm as well When a rider gets cold they can experience hypothermia - a condition that causes slowed mental and physical reactions , as well as the loss of smooth muscle control When you are riding , dress for visibility ( that all - black outfit can make you even harder to see ) . When riders and drivers collide , the rider loses . It's just physics - big wins . While the rider generally takes the brunt of the impact , imagine how you would feel to be that driver ... there are NO winners . Motorcyclists are your neighbors , your co - workers , maybe your family and friends . We are you . There are over 7 million motorcyclists in this country - odds are you know some . Once you know that someone in your life rides , you'll start to see more of us . Then we all win . The Strategies : Take breaks frequently so you ( and your passenger ) can warm up in a heated area Wear multiple layers to help trap warm air close to your body Consider heated clothing ( vests , jackets , chaps , socks , gloves , etc. ) to fight off the cold ( remember that unless you have your own source of heat - the cold will eventually win ) . Issues & Tips : Issue : Motorcyclists are closer than they appear . Their speed and distance are difficult for drivers to judge , especially at intersections . Tip : Always keep a watchful eye and look twice at intersections before you turn or pull out . Issue : Many drivers count on hearing motorcyclists to be aware of their presence , but you can't always hear them , especially when they are oncoming . Tip : Don't just rely on your ears . Practice remaining alert at all times . Issue : Many motorcyclists slow down by downshifting , which won't activate the brake light . This can be dangerous if you don't allow yourself extra space when following a motorcyclist , particularly on busy city streets . Tip : Keep your distance when following a motorcyclist . Issue : Failing to notice or recognize motorcyclist hand signals can lead to crashes . Motorcyclists use hand signals to let vehicles know their intentions on the road . Tip : Know their signals a right turn is signaled by a left arm raised , a left turn by the left arm straight out to the side and a stop by the left arm downward . Issue : 84 % of motorcycle - vehicle crashes happen on streets , not highways . A common misconception is that most crashes involving motorcyclists and vehicles occur on highways . Data shows that a large majority take place on city streets where a lot of vehicles are in motion . Tip : Be aware that most motorcycle - vehicle crashes happen on streets . Issue : Distracted driving takes your attention away from the road . Common distractions are handheld mobile devices , GPS devices , eating , drinking or reaching for an object . Tip : Wait until you reach your destination to interact with a mobile device , eat or drink . Keep in mind Michigan's hands - free law states a driver cannot hold or support a phone or other device with any part of their hands arms or shoulders while driving . spring approaches , educate the missss don't lut then be this PROCLAMATIONS SIGNED BY : SEE M SAVE ME SAVE A LIFE MOTORCYCLE RENESS VE AL May is Motorcycle Awareness Month . Start Seeing Motorcycles ! www.abate - Lorg / Proclamations Yorkville Mayor John Purcell Montgomery President Matthew Brolley Plano Mayor Mike Rennels