Ride Safe This Season: Motorcycle Safety Tips for Warmer Weather

Fairfax County, VA – As the weather warms up, more motorcyclists are out enjoying the roads. FCPD reminds everyone to ride safely as traffic increases. Before you ride, check out these safety tips to help keep everyone safe.

For Motorcyclists:

• Wear the Right Gear: Always ride with protective equipment — helmet, durable jacket, gloves, pants, and boots. Choose bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility.
• Check Your Bike: Before each ride, inspect your motorcycle’s tires, brakes, lights, signals, and fluid levels to ensure everything is in top condition.
• Ride Smart: Stay alert, anticipate potential hazards, and assume other drivers may not see you. Keep a safe distance, use turn signals, and watch for blind spots.
• Stay Sober: Never ride under the influence — your reaction time and judgment depend on it.
• Keep Your Focus: Distractions can be deadly. Stay off electronic devices and remain fully engaged with the road and traffic around you.

For Drivers:

• Stay Alert for Motorcycles: Check your mirrors and blind spots frequently — motorcycles are smaller and can be harder to spot.
• Give Them Space: Maintain a safe following distance and avoid crowding motorcycles, especially when changing lanes or turning.
• Use Your Turn Signals: Signal well in advance to give riders time to react. Patience and awareness can prevent accidents.
• Look Twice, Save a Life: Before pulling out, merging, or turning, double-check for motorcycles—they may be closer than they appear.
• Respect Their Place on the Road: Treat motorcycles as you would any other vehicle. Avoid cutting them off or blocking their path.
• Drive Sober & Stay Focused: Just like motorcyclists, drivers must avoid distractions and impairment to keep the roads safe.

Safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re behind the wheel or on two wheels, let’s work together to make the roads safer for everyone.

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