As the weather starts to get cooler, many parts of the nation may start to witness more Motorcycle events. These events are partly social gathering but mostly charitable. Motorcyclists in support of some sort of charitable event will pay to enter and then enjoy a day of riding with their friends and, usually, a lunch or dinner afterward.

These events are a great way to raise money and awareness for deserving charities but they can pose a small problem for drivers. The Events are essentially mini-parades with up to two hundred riders at a time. They will normally announce their rides through local TV and newspapers and publish their route but not everyone gets the word. These motorcycle get-togethers are normally escorted by off-duty motor cycle police officers whose time is paid for by the event.


For a driver, who may be in a hurry, to encounter a passing of two hundred motorcyclists, it can sometimes create a conflict and some drivers may lose their patience and try to cut through. If you encounter one of these events, remember, it is for a good cause and it has been permitted by local law enforcement. Please exercise patience while the parade passes by. Be aware, that there may be a few stragglers and keep your eye out for motorcycles.

Remember, always look twice for motorcycles.

If you want to participate in one of these motorcycle events, you can view the calendar of upcoming events in your area at: http://motorcycleevents.com/index.php?option=com_sobi2&Itemid=156

Labels: driver safety, motorcycle, motorcycle events, motorcycle safety

The last big weekend of summer is coming up. Whether you are traveling in Dallas, Houston, Austin or San Antonio, all around Texas millions of drivers will be hitting the road for one final summer getaway before everyone goes back to school and the weather turns cool. Whether you are going travel for a weekend away at the coast or a local lake or simply driving around your own area there are some common things to watch out for:

Motorcycles and Bicycles - As you head out onto the road and feel the wind in your hair or to take that cross country biking trip consider some quick rider safety tips. Drivers should be aware that motorcycles and bicycles have a right to share the road and should be treated as you would treat any other vehicle. Cyclists should also remember that they are required to follow all traffic laws just as they would in a car. Because they have a low profile, motorists often don't see a cycle until it is too late. For motorists who are entering traffic from a driveway or an intersection, remember the rule; look left, right, and then left again, before proceeding.

Pace Yourself – A long day under the hot sun will tire you out. To prevent fatigue and dehydration make sure you eat well and don't use alcohol to satisfy your thirst. Alcohol will increase your dehydration and the hot sun combined with the dehydration will only compound the effects of the alcohol. Don't stay so long that you are totally worn out before you hit the road. If necessary, take turns driving home to avoid drowsy driving and falling asleep behind the wheel. Don't rely on energy drinks to make up for a lack of sleep.

Crowds - As family and friends gather together parking lots or small town festivals can mean big crowds. Be on the lookout for pedestrians and especially for children darting out into the street or behind your vehicle.

Have a happy and enjoyable Labor Day weekend and get home safe.

Labels: bicycle safety, driver safety, drowsy driving, motorcycle safety

photo © 2011 Fort Carson | more info (via: Wylio)
Since 2003, the Texas Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs has been hard at work ensuring that at least one month of the year, the focus will be on motorcycle safety awareness. Currently, there are 781,303 licensed motorcyclists in the state, which is why it is no surprise that the state annually observes May as Motorcycle Safety Month.

The Texas DPS advices motorcyclists to keep themselves and others on the road safe by following their advice:

• Attend a professionally taught motorcycle safety course.
• Wear protective equipment, including a helmet whenever riding.
• Drive defensively.
• Avoid driving while intoxicated.
• Avoid speeding.

The DPS Motorcycle Safety Unit also prescribes that along with the safety equipment to be worn while riding a motorcycle, people should also make sure that their helmets are DOT-approved to ensure proper safety.

Currently, the DPS Motorcycle Safety Unit offers basic and advanced motorcycle training in 62 permanent locations and 9 mobile sites. Interested parties may look up the nearest course available for them by visiting the DPS web site: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/msb/.

Last year alone, the state saw a record number of 29,141 Texans taking advantage of the courses.

While the month is clearly designed for motorcycle enthusiasts and motorcycle safety enthusiasts, non-motorcycle drivers should always keep an eye out to keep themselves and these motorcycle riders safe.

Here are some tips for non-motorcycle drivers:

• Always keep an eye out for motorcycles on the road. Given their size, motorcycles are harder to see, so drivers should be alert.
• Don't cut off motorcycles. These vehicles move at different rates, and cutting off a motorcycle may result in harm.
• Give motorcycles extra space. Though motorcycles occupy less space on the road, they require more to maneuver.

Labels: motorcycle, motorcycle license, motorcycle safety, motorcycle safety month