Friday, April 30, 2010

How can you avoid hitting a motorcyclist?

Via MattarMedia - Spring has sprung! The warm weather is rolling out, and so are the motorcycles. After a long winter, cyclists are revving up their engines and breaking out on the open roads. So, what should you know as a motorist to avoid colliding with a biker?

Motorcycles have some unique characteristics that generally would not be known by people who do not ride themselves. Being aware of these small differences may help to keep motorcyclists safer on the roads.

Hazard #1: Braking
Motorcyclists will often slow down by downshifting, as opposed to applying the brakes.  When this happens, there will be no brake lights to communicate their change in speed. 
Solution: Always keep a reasonable distance behind a motorcycle so you have enough time to respond when you notice that they are slowing down.


Hazard #2: Turning
Unlike most cars, the turn signals on a motorcycle are not self-canceling.  This means that if a biker does not turn it off, it may look like he is turning when he is not.
Solution: Never assume a motorcycle is turning, even when the turn signal is on.  This simple defensive driving tactic can help to eliminate this danger.

Hazard #3: Stopping
Inclement weather and slippery road conditions make stopping quickly difficult on a motorcycle.
Solution: Again, allow plenty of distance between you and a motorcycle.  Don't expect that the rider can stop suddenly.

Hazard #4: Maneuvering
Motorcycles are known for quick and easy movement.  While maneuverability might be characteristic of a bike, don't assume that a rider will always be able to get out of the way of road hazards.
Solution: Keep your distance and slow down when you spy potential risks, such as potholes and road debris.

As motorists, we are responsible for not just ourselves, but everyone else on the roads that we may encounter.  Treat motorcyclists as if they were pedestrians in the road - bikers have just as little to protect them when they are hit by a motor vehicle.

    Wednesday, April 28, 2010

    Is motorcycle riding for you?

    Via MattarMedia - The motorcycles are back on the road and you find yourself envious of the inherent freedom that biking symbolizes. But before you seriously think about purchasing a motorcycle, is it right for you?

    Take this self-assessment, courtesy of The Motorcycle Safety Foundation,  to see if you should even consider getting a bike:

    1. Are you a higher risk-taker than others you know? If you tend to need a thrill while driving a car and have aggressive or risky tendencies, motorcycling may not be for you.

    2. Can you ride a bicycle? This is generally a good gauge of your ability to maneuver a motorcycle. Bicycling, like motorcycling, is a physical activity that involves balance and coordination.

    3. Can you drive a stick-shift car? This is not a requirement, but it may make learning to ride easier because almost all motorcycles have manual transmissions.

    4. Do you see well? Riding a motorcycle requires special perceptual skills that rely on good vision. The ability to see well ahead is important for safe riding.

    5. Are you safety-minded? Riders can control their situation only if safety is a high priority. Millions of motorcyclists ride millions of miles without incident, and they likely take safety seriously.

    6. Can you focus? Inattention is a major cause of crashes. Safe motorcycling requires dedicated attention to the immediate task and a keen awareness of everything going on 360 degrees around you.

    7. Can you react quickly in an emergency? On a motorcycle, having quick reaction skills is essential because other drivers tend not to see motorcyclists in traffic, especially around intersections.

    8. Are you willing to invest some time in learning to ride the right way before hopping on a bike? Your best “first ride” is a Basic Rider Course where you can familiarize yourself with the safe operation of a motorcycle.

    Riding a motorcycle can be a lot of fun, but also comes with some serious risks.  Please ride carefully. 

    Monday, April 26, 2010

    Why older motorcyclists should be careful



    Via MattarMedia - Riding a motorcycle can be risky business. Now, a new study shows that older motorcyclists are at an even greater risk.

    As reported by YNN:
    Motorcycle riders across the country are growing older, and the impact of this trend is being seen in emergency rooms daily. That’s according to a recent study published in the March issue of the American Surgeon. Doctors are finding that these aging road warriors are more likely to be injured or die compared to their younger counterparts.

    Despite the warnings, riders themselves say it’s worth the risk. In only ten years on her bike, Grace Rizzo has become a pro, but even the most experienced rider can run into trouble. That's just what happened to Grace two years ago during a trip through the Smokey Mountains in Georgia.

    "And I slipped on some gravel and went down and the bike landed on top of me," said Rizzo. By the time help arrived, the heat from the motorcycle burned through her leg right down to the bone. "The accident was almost three years ago it took almost two years for me to be actually being walking again," Rizzo said.

    According to a national study, Grace's story is all too common among older riders. "It tells us that people getting injured on motorcycles appear to be getting older. It's possibly a result of the 'Baby Boomer Generation' continuing on with their motorcycle activity," said Dr. Mark Gestring Assistant Professor of Surgery and Emergency Medicine at the University of Rochester.

    Gestring co-authored the study that tracked more than 61,000 motorcyclists over a ten year period. Between 1996 and 2005, researchers found the average age of motorcyclists involved in crashes increased from approximately 34 to 39 years, and the proportion of injured riders above the age of 40 increased from around 28 percent to close to 50 percent.

    For riders above the age of 40, injury severity, length of stay in the hospital or intensive care unit, and mortality were higher compared to riders below the age of 40. The risk of dying was one-and-a-half to two times more likely in riders over 40, based on the severity of the original injury. The study also found that older riders are more likely to die from less severe injuries than younger riders.

    Even before her accident, Rizzo knew how dangerous riding could be. As a nurse in an intensive care unit she tells her patients to take precautions. As a lover of the open road she has a different message.

    "Keep riding. Enjoy life. You never know. Just be careful," Rizzo added.
    Check back this week for some safety tips and more information about motorcycling. Please remember to ride safe!

    Thursday, April 22, 2010

    The DWI Hall of Shame

    Via MattarMedia - When someone chooses to drive a vehicle while impaired, they endanger everybody on the roads. On Tuesday, we discussed "what is a vehicle" in New York state (you can read the post here if you missed it).

    Today, we highlight some of the most news worthy DWI arrests we have seen. The results are in! Our Hall of Shame nominees are:

    Most Geographically-Challenged DWI: This man was so drunk that he drove up to the loading dock at a prison in Fultonville, NY and asked for permission to cross into Canada (he thought he was at the Canadian border in Niagara Falls - some 260 miles away from where he actually was). Read the story here.

    Most Embarrassing DWI: I am sure you are wondering, "how can a DWI be embarrassing?" Well, what if you were arrested while driving drunk on an electric Barbie jeep? Yes, we are referring to the pink toy jeep marketed to 3 year old toddlers. Find the story here, complete with photos.

    Most Innovative DWI: Every now and then, we see a news article about someone who was arrested for driving a lawn mower drunk. While one could make an argument for best use of time management, it is not very unique. This guy on the other hand, put a motor on his La-Z-Boy armchair and took it for a spin after a few too many drinks. We blogged about him last year, but we think it deserves a second mention. You can find the original blog post here.

    Thankfully, no one was injured in any of these stories. Please remember to have a designated driver if you are going to be drinking. There is nothing wrong with having a good time but only if you do it responsibly.

    Tuesday, April 20, 2010

    You don't have to be driving a car to get a DWI

    Via MattarMedia - Most people would agree that drinking and then driving a motor vehicle is a poor choice. We have laws against it for a reason. What seems to be less clear is "what exactly constitutes a motor vehicle"?

    New York state Vehicle & Traffic Law defines a motor vehicle as "every vehicle operated or driven which is propelled by any power other than muscular power". Obviously, this encompasses automobiles, trucks and motorcycles, but would also extend to include powered vehicles like go karts, golf carts and snowmobiles (among many others).

    What does this mean in regards to DWI laws? It means that operating any motorized vehicle while impaired can result in a DWI. As reported by WIVB:

    Police charged a Lewiston man with DWI who they say was driving drunk on a go-kart.

    22-year-old Ronald Voight was arrested Sunday morning on Village Street. 24-year-old John Burnett was also charged with DWI after police say he nearly hit the go-kart and patrol car alongside the road.

    Now that the warm weather is (almost) here, use caution on all of your utility vehicles and please drink responsibly.

    Friday, April 16, 2010

    Bike Safely with these Rules of the Road

    Via MattarMedia - Today we wrap up this week's series on bicycle safety. If you need a recap, read our blog posts on How to Correctly Wear Your Helmet and How to Prepare for Your Bike Ride. Now that you have the right equipment and your bike is properly prepared, let's discuss some basic rules to follow when on the roads.

    A bicycle is considered a vehicle. This means that bikers are required to obey the same traffic laws as other motorists. You must stop at red lights and stop signs, yield when necessary, and signal your turns.  Take a look at the chart on the right to be sure you are using the correct hand signals to communicate with other drivers.

    Just like other vehicles, you must ride on the right-hand side of the road with traffic.  When you are able to safely do so, you should ride as far to the right as possible - using the shoulder or a bike lane.  Look for hazards in your path, like potholes and storm grates, which can easily cause a fall.

    It is best to always assume that the other drivers do not see you and try to make eye contact with them.  Keep aware of the other vehicles on the road and anticipate their movement (i.e. lane changes).  To learn the 10 most common auto-bicycle collisions and how you can avoid them,  click here.

    Safety Tip: Do NOT wear headphones while riding!  In New York State, it is illegal to ride a bike wearing more than one earphone.  Your greatest defense against an accident is your sense of sight and sound, so don't compromise either.

    You are finally ready to get on that bike!  Enjoy the outdoors and ride safely.   

    Thursday, April 15, 2010

    Before you get on your bike, are you prepared?

    Via MattarMedia - If you have been following our series this week on bicycle safety, then you are ready for the next lesson!  Let's review.  You have the right helmet and you know how to wear it (if not, please read Tuesday's blog post).

    So, what comes next?  You need to make sure your bike is ready for riding.  Here is a basic checklist to get you started.
    • Is your bike adjusted to fit you properly?
    • Are your wheels straight and secure?
    • Do the handlebars turn easily?
    • Have you tested the brakes?
    • Are your tires fully inflated?
    • Do you have reflectors on the front, rear, spokes and pedals?
    Regardless how much bike riding you do each year, it is a good idea to take your bike into a shop each spring for a general tune-up which will address most of these problems.  A worn tire or brake-shoe pad left unattended can end in serious injury.  The staff at the bike shop are specially trained to inspect bikes and may spy a hazard that you are unaware of.

    Now your bike is properly outfitted, but are you?  When dressing for a bike ride, always choose clothes that are brightly colored so that you will be easily seen by motorists.  Consider the time of day when selecting your outfit.  It may be mid-day when you leave for your excursion, but what time do you plan on returning?  If you take a long trip or make stops, it may be dark by the time you get home.  Plan for that by bringing a reflective vest and having your bike installed with the appropriate night-time gear (i.e. headlight and taillight).

    Guess what?  You are almost ready to ride your bike.  Check back tomorrow to learn some good Rules of the Road.

    Tuesday, April 13, 2010

    Are you wearing your bike helmet the correct way?

    Via MattarMedia - When we think about bike safety, we tend to think about using hand signals or riding on the right side of the road. What often gets forgotten is that bike safety starts before you even get on your bike - with the proper equipment.

    When worn correctly, a bike helmet can help protect you from head or brain injury, and can even be effective in saving your life. It is important to make sure that the helmet you wear is made for bicycling, as each helmet is designed for a certain sport. You also want to check that the helmet meets CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) standards - this information can be found on the manufacturer's label inside the helmet.

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers the following guidelines for properly fitting a bicycle helmet:
    • Helmet should fit level on the head (one to two fingers above eyebrow). 
    • Helmet straps should form a “V” under the ears. 
    • Helmet straps must be buckled tight enough so no more than two fingers can fit between the chin and the strap. 
    • When adjusted, the helmet should not move more than about an inch in any direction.
    For additional information on bicycle helmets, including how to measure your head and when to replace a helmet, visit The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute. Be sure to check our blog for more helpful tips throughout the week. Safe riding!

    Monday, April 12, 2010

    The Death of a Bicyclist is a Tragic Reminder


    Via MattarMedia - With spring in full bloom and icy roads behind us, we begin to see an increase in speed as hazardous road conditions are assumed to be exclusive to winter weather.

    Just as the first snowfall of the season results in many traffic accidents, because we have seemingly "forgotten" how to drive in the snow, the shift to spring comes with calamitous reminders.

    As reported by Your News Now in Central New York:

    A bicyclist was hit by a car and killed Sunday evening in Westmoreland. State Police say the man was riding on Route 5 when he was struck by a vehicle headed westbound. The man was taken to Saint Elizabeth's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

    At this point investigators have not said if the driver was at fault, but they do have a message for others out on the road.

    New York State Police Troop D Sergeant Kevin Maxwell said, "Slow down. Pay attention especially now that the days are longer, the late afternoon sun; be aware of your surroundings. Now, with bicyclists and motorcyclists, they are everywhere."

    Police say they are still trying to identify the man who was killed, so they can notify his next of kin.
    As motorists, it is important to remember that we share the roads with bicyclists and motorcyclists. All week, we will be blogging about bicycle safety and providing tips to keep everyone safer on the roads. Check back to find out more.

    Thursday, April 8, 2010

    Investigators Believe Texting Contributed to Fatal Crash


    Via MattarMedia - The Livingston County Sheriff's Department believes a SUNY Geneseo student killed in a one car crash in Leicester early Tuesday morning may have been texting at the time of the crash.

    The sheriff's department identified the victim as Mary Kavanaugh, 22, of Sanborn, Niagara County.

    Investigators believe Kavanaugh may have been text messaging, which contributed to her drifting off the roadway and causing the vehicle to roll.

    SUNY Geneseo officials notified the campus Tuesday of Kavanaugh's death through an e-mail from the dean of students.

    Many of Mary’s friends and co-workers at The Statesmen bar, where the owner said Kavanaugh was an employee, were upset about the news. Some of them told YNN she was the type of person who would give you the shirt off her back.

    Some students say they are still shocked about her death, especially with graduation weeks away.

    "You hear things like this on the news and you don't really think twice about it sometimes but when it's someone from your community and from the school you go to it definitely hits home a little more," said Holly Judge, SUNY Geneseo student.

    "I'm a senior too and we were all going to graduate in May, so it's really sad to hear that she died," said Kristelle Cadeno, SUNY Geneseo student.

    The school said Kavanaugh was a 2006 graduate of Starpoint High School in Lockport and was a senior communications major at Geneseo.

    Tuesday, April 6, 2010

    GM gets Proactive to Prevent Unintended Acceleration

    Via MattarMedia DETROIT - General Motors says it will install a new brake safety measure that can prevent unintended acceleration on all its new vehicles worldwide by 2012.

    The step comes as federal regulators consider making the system mandatory on cars and trucks after Toyota's big problems with vehicles that can speed out of control.

    A brake override reduces power to the engine when the driver steps on both the brake and accelerator. It should also slow a vehicle if the gas pedal is stuck.

    GM has not had major problems with unintended acceleration, but says the safety measure is meant to reassure drivers.

    Drunk Man Intentionally Drives Car into Firehouse


    Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. - Buffalo Police say a drunk driver intentionally rammed his vehicle into a fire station.

    28-year-old Colin Billingsley faces several charges including DWI and aggravated criminal contempt. Investigators say a female passenger suffered non-life threatening injuries when he drove into the the firehouse at Jefferson and Kingsley around 11:30 Sunday night.

    Monday, April 5, 2010

    Bikers Reminded about Motorcycle Safety


    Via MattarMedia Syracuse - Bikers are out on the roads earlier than ever because of record high temperatures.

    But the unofficial start of the motorcycle season has been accompanied by an increased number of motorcycle accidents.

    "People forget some of the basics, such as a motorcycle goes where you look," said Dale Parsons, Owner of F.I.R.S.T. Motorcycle Safety Program. "If you get in trouble and you look at what it is you're trying to avoid, you'll hit it."

    New York riders are required to pass a written test and a road test in order to get their motorcycle license.

    The DMV also recommends the Motorcycle Safety Foundation course. Both beginners and experienced riders can sign up for the course at http://nysmsp.org.

    "I tell everybody who tells me they're buying a bike or thinking about it," said Patrick Hogan, a 44-year motorcycle veteran. "I make them promise me that they're going to take the course. It's not going to save everyone's life but if it saves one, it has done a good job."
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