Each spring folks roll down their car windows, dust off their motorcycle seats, and pump up their bicycle tires to embrace the warm weather. In fact, May 1 marked the start of Global Youth Traffic Safety Month, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and Bicycle Safety Month. With warm weather upon us, it’s essential to remember best transportation practices no matter your mode for getting from A to B.
Cars
Despite icy winter roads, warmer months actually tally more automobile accidents than their winter counterparts. Increased risk of car accidents in warmer months is partially attributable to more teens being on the road. Here are a few tips to ensure your teens are not hazard to their own health — or anyone else’s.
- Educate your loved ones about the dangers of summer driving.
- Send out a text at about the time your teen should have reached his/her destination.
- Talk to your teen about the dangers of both distracted and intoxicated driving.
Motorcycles
Motorcycle safety becomes imperative when the weather ripens enough to ride a motorcycle on a regular basis. In fact, motorcycle-related deaths have steadily increased in the last 40 years. Remember the following guidelines before hopping on your bike:
- Wear a helmet.
- Avoid riding in bad weather (especially rain).
- Be extra careful when encountering potholes, sand, and other road hazards and especially if you’re a new rider.
Bicycles
Bicycles are cheap, fun, and fuel-free; and when the weather cooperates, a bike ride can be perfect way to let loose. However, the fun stops when cyclists make a few minor mistakes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers these reminders.
- Wear a helmet.
- Check the functionality of all equipment, brakes, and wheels before setting out.
- Look out for potholes, glass, puddles, and sand.
- Wear reflectors and/or lights while riding at night.
Above all, enjoy yourself. A nice breeze, sunshine, and leisure pretty much epitomize having fun. When you head out: use some common sense, and always stop to eat something delicious.
For more information:
Get more safety tips about cars, motorcycles, bicycles from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and check out our library of safety-related articles on grinnellmutual.com.