May Is Motorcycle Safety Month

April 22, 2010 - PRLog -- Riding on a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with some risks. Even if a motorcyclist follows every law, he or she can still be involved in an accident.

Nearly two-thirds of all motorcycle collisions occur with a passenger car, and in a typical motorcycle accident, motorcyclists have less than two seconds to take action to avoid a collision. “By following a few simple precautions, passenger cars who share the road with riders can help make sure that each trip they take is a safe one,” says Allstate New York spokesperson Krista Conte.

As a motorist or a passenger, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reminds us that there are some steps to become more aware of motorcyclists:

•   Respect the motorcyclist:
Remember the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the privileges of any vehicle on the roadway. Give the motorcyclist a full lane of travel.
•   Look out:
Look for the motorcyclist on the highway, at intersections, when a motorcyclist may be making a left turn and when a motorcyclist may be changing lanes. Clearly signal your intentions.
•   Anticipate a motorcyclist's maneuver:
Obstructions (debris, potholes, etc.) that you may ignore or not notice can be deadly for a motorcyclist. Predict evasive actions.
•   Allow plenty of space:
Don't follow a motorcycle too closely. Allow enough room for the motorcyclist to take evasive actions.

If you own a motorcycle, there’s a good chance Allstate can help you protect it, and yourself, in case of an accident. Allstate’s motorcycle policies are designed with bikers’ needs in mind. To find a local agent near you, visit www.allstate.com.

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The Allstate Corporation  is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer, reinventing protection and retirement to help more than 17 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow.