IDOT sharing tips for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WMBD) — The Illinois Department of Transportation is teaming up with the Illinois State Police and motorcycle safety advocates during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
They started the 'Start Seeing Motorcycles' campaign to encourage drivers and motorcyclists to safely enjoy Illinois roads together, Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT's bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering, said.
'Don't take risks, always obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits and lane markings, and never drive or ride impaired,' Seck-Birhame said.
During the campaign, there will be motorcycle banners and yard signs on display to remind drivers to be alert for motorcyclists. Information from IDOT shows that while motorcycles represent 3% of total vehicle registrations in Illinois, they accounted for nearly 14% of traffic deaths in 2023.
'While there are fewer motorcycles on roads compared to passenger cars, the motorcycle fatality rate for crashes is five times higher than the fatality rate for passenger cars,' said ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen. 'ISP reminds motorcyclists to make an effort to be seen while riding, avoid weaving in and out of traffic, and obey speed limits. ISP also reminds other drivers to watch for motorcyclists who may not be as easily seen, and to give them space.'
IDOT shared safety tips for both drivers and motorcyclists.
For Drivers:
Look twice before changing lanes or merging into traffic, using your mirrors and glancing over your shoulder. Allow an appropriate distance.
Allow motorcyclists enough space to maneuver and enough time to adjust if necessary. Traffic, weather and road conditions require motorcyclists to react and maneuver differently than other drivers.
Be vigilant. A motorcycle can easily be hidden behind other vehicles. Checking mirrors and blind spots is essential before changing lanes or merging.
Use care when driving near a group of motorcyclists. Sharing the road with organized motorcycle groups requires patience and communication. If you need to change lanes or reach an exit, signal your intention early and wait for the riders to create a space. Do not merge between groups or riders unless there is enough space to do so safely.
For motorcyclists:
Wear DOT-compliant gear that increases visibility in traffic in addition to providing protection in the event of a crash. Use bright colors and retro-reflective strips or decals, especially at night. Over-the-ankle boots, gloves, protective jackets, pants and properly fitted helmets with face shields or protective eyewear are all part of a full-gear package.
Use lane positioning to increase your visibility. Ride with your headlight on at all times. It's the law in Illinois. Give yourself space and time to react. Allow room for emergency braking. Make lane changes gradually and expect the unexpected.
Ride sober. Motorcycle riding and alcohol don't mix. Drinking slows your reaction time and affects your balance, coordination and vision.
Always signal before changing lanes. Avoid weaving between lanes. Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
More information on the campaign is available here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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