Do you have respect out on the road?

STATEWIDE, Wis. - May 9, 2016 - PRLog -- Motorcyclists depend on respect as a way to protect themselves as they ride Wisconsin roads; their lives depend on it. But there's no special treatment just for them, all drivers should be courteous to those they share the road with. Then, and only then, can we cut down on crashes and fatalities on our state roads.

There are several ways that you can be courteous to motorcyclists. They are:
--Make sure to use your mirrors and check your blind spots for motorcycles and other vehicles. Before making a turn or changing lanes, look and look again. Remember: motorcycles are smaller and  appear farther away than they are.
--When driving near a motorcycle, let them have full use of their lane of traffic and don't follow too close in case the motorcyclist has to stop quickly. All motorists are urged to make sure they use their turn signals changing lanes and direction.
--Never, EVER drive distracted or under the influence. Your distraction or impairment could literally cost someone their life.

BUT courtesy is a two-way street! Motorcyclists also need to show respect to others on the road!
--Maintain riding with the stream of traffic; don't weave in and out.
--When riding in groups, allow other vehicles to merge whenever possible; sometimes it can't be avoided so be courteous and let them in.
--Give other vehicles the room they need and deserve.
--Obey speed limits, street signs and use your turn signals at all times.
--Ride within your limits. Never, EVER ride under the influence.
--Remember you have neighbors and share the community with others. You may like the way your ride sounds, but your neighbor may not especially if woken up. Use throttle management to lessen noise levels.

All road users need to show respect to the other motorists the road. If we show respect by monitoring our own driving and riding habits and policing our own actions, we won't have others creating laws and rules for us, such as, lower BAC, lower speed limits, more traffic cameras, among other ideas. What it boils down to is one simple word, with a simple definition: respect all users of the road and travel in Wisconsin will be enjoyed by all.

ABATE (A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments) is a bi-partisan grass roots organization with a goal to give the motorcyclists of Wisconsin a strong, united voice with regard to their future, their way of life, their safety and their legal rights as motorcyclists and citizens.

To find out more about ABATE of Wisconsin, Inc., please visit http://www.abatewis.org.