Lansing, MI - In recognition of May as national Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is encouraging motorists to take extra precautions and “look twice” for motorcyclists, especially on city streets and at intersections.
“One of the most common misconceptions among drivers is that most motorcycle crashes happen on highways,” Benson said. “But crash statistics tell a different story. Motorcyclists are most likely to be involved in a crash with another vehicle on urban and suburban streets and at intersections.”
A rider and motorcycle present a smaller profile compared to the size of most cars and trucks, meaning drivers miss them or do not immediately identify them as part of the traffic mix, with vehicles turning left at intersections being a particular risk. Motorists often fail to see an approaching rider in the oncoming lane and turn in front of them. That is why it is critical drivers be especially attentive in known high-risk crash areas, such as when making left turns and on city streets.
For more information on motorcycle safety and awareness, visit Michigan.gov/LookTwice.