Stay alert for motorcycles on the road

Motorcyclists face many hazards on the road. Besides weather and road conditions, a big hazard for them remains other motorists. Many of these drivers may not have as an acute sense for safety as motorcyclists, causing accidents mainly because they are unaware of them being on the road.

More than 2,500 injured on state roads

With motorcycle season upon us in Illinois, it is a good reminder that other motorists safely share the road with motorcyclists. If they do not, accidents and tragedy may occur. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 3,300 motorcycle crashes occurred throughout the state in 2017. Those accidents injured more than 2,500 motorcyclists and killed 160 of them.

Here are some of the more common reasons that motorcycle accidents occur:

• Reckless driving: Motorists who ignore traffic laws by speeding, blowing through stop signs and traffic lights can cause serious harm.
• Inattentive and distracted driving: This has been on the upswing as more drivers rely on smartphones, talking on them or texting while behind the wheel.
• Drowsy driving: Long trips and lack of sleep can cause any driver to not be at their most alert.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: A major and preventable cause of many road accidents.

While Motorcycle Awareness Month gets an official nod once a year, every month should be recognized as such. Share the road, follow traffic laws and always be on the alert for potential road dangers.