- Always wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. Novelty helmets are not approved and offer little protection to the rider in a crash and are illegal.
- Riders should maintain a high level of awareness, scanning the roadway constantly for dangers.
The New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee has declared May Motorcycle Safety Month, and the New Hartford Police Department has compiled a list of tips for riding safely.
“The New Hartford Police Department urges motorcycle operators to enjoy the ride, but please operate in a safe and responsible manner,” New Hartford Police officials wrote in a statement. “We also urge all operators of motor vehicles to be additionally aware of motorcycles on the road and share the road responsibly.”
The following is a list of tips for motorcycle riders and motorists.
Motorcyclists should wear proper safety equipment
Always wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. Novelty helmets are not approved and offer little protection to the rider in a crash.
“In fact, [novelty helmets] are illegal to wear on New York roadways,” New Hartford Police officials wrote in a statement. “Always wear high-quality riding gear designed to protect the rider during a fall. This includes over-the-ankle boots, full finger gloves with padding in addition to jackets and pants with armor protection at impact points.”
Riders should be conspicuous and wear high-visibility vests, garments with reflector features, and accessories to boost their visibility to other drivers.
Riders should maintain their motorcycle properly and ensure all their lights and horn are working, and both mirrors are adjusted. And most importantly, make sure tires are properly inflated and have legal tread depth.
“Remember, motorcycles maintain a smaller tire contact patch on the roadway when compared to other vehicles,” New Hartford Police officials wrote. “Good traction is a key component to safe handling and braking in normal and adverse situations.”
Awareness and a clear mind
Riders should maintain a high level of awareness, scanning the roadway constantly for dangers. And no one should ride tired or impaired by drugs or alcohol.
“[And] Discourage other riders from making a bad choice,” New Hartford Police officials wrote.
Traffic safety
To avoid crashes, New Hartford Police officials urge motorcycle riders to turn left with caution and slow down.
“Most crashes between cars and motorcycles involve turning left. If you are preparing to cross traffic or turn left, take a second look to make sure it is safe to proceed,” officials wrote.
When riding, follow traffic laws, speed limits, and signals while allowing adequate space between the motorcycle and vehicle in front, using the “two-second” rule as a safety zone.
Other motorists
Motorists should watch for motorcycles and be aware that spring and summer are the most popular seasons for riders.
More than anything, New Hartford Police officials urged people to yield to motorcycles.
“Don’t make a rash decision and turn quickly in front of an oncoming motorcycle as it may be traveling faster than it appears,” officials wrote. “Check your mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes. Also, when negotiating busy intersections, look twice for motorcycles before proceeding safely. They have a smaller frontal area and may be hard to see.”
The standard safety practices are also encouraged for any and all motorists: ensure the vehicle is in safe operating condition and that all safety equipment is properly adjusted; observe and obey all traffic laws, signs, and signals. Stay focused on the road and surroundings, never driving distracted.
For more information, including additional resources for motorists and motorcyclists, visit https://trafficsafety.ny.gov/motorcycle-safety
