Motorcycle Safety

Tips for Motorcyclists

  • Get the Gear. Proper riding gear helps protect riders in the event of a crash. Wear protective gear that covers the skin and is weather appropriate. This can include tall boots, gloves, and abrasion resistant pants and jackets with protective armor. Helmets decrease the severity of injury, the likelihood of death, and the overall cost of medical care.

  • Ride Sober. 50% of single vehicle motorcycle deaths involve drugs or alcohol. Never ride your motorcycle under the influence.

  • Be Seen. Wearing high-visibility gear increases your chances of being seen by vehicles.

  • Get Your License. In Michigan, half of all motorcycle fatalities involve riders who are not properly licensed. Michigan law requires a motorcycle endorsement (CY) on a driver's license to legally ride a motorcycle on the state's roadways.

  • Ride the Right Way. Training and education is an ongoing process for every rider. Visit the Michigan Department of State Motorcyclist Training Site Locator webpage to locate the nearest training site.

  • Stay Alert. Watch for anything that could make you lose control of your motorcycle, including potholes, cracks, wet leaves, storm grates, or railroad tracks. Listen for traffic, and keep your eyes off personal electronic devices when you ride.

Tips for Drivers

  • Always Assume Motorcyclists are Closer Than They Appear. Their speed and distance are difficult for drivers to judge, especially at intersections. Keep a watchful eye at all times.

  • Look Twice. Intersections are one of the biggest dangers for motorcyclists. Their smaller size causes them to be overlooked by other drivers. Make sure to look twice before turning, especially to the left.

  • Don't Rely on Sound. You can’t always hear motorcycles, especially when they are oncoming. So, practice remaining alert at all times.

  • Double-Check Blind Spots. Motorcyclists can get lost in a vehicle’s blind spot. Be extra cautious when merging or changing lanes.

  • Keep Your Distance. Many motorcyclists slow down by downshifting, which won’t activate the brake light. Allow yourself extra space when you’re following a motorcyclist, particularly on busy city streets.

  • Know the Signals. Motorcyclists often use hand signals, similar to bicyclists, to let others know their intentions on the road. 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.

Resources

Coming Soon

For additional information about GVMC’s Safety Education and Outreach Program, please contact Andrea Faber by phone (616) 776.7603 or email.