Intersections

Subject: Motorcycle Safety - Intersections (09-02)

According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis 2007 ended
with 2,332 two-vehicle crashes involving a motorcycle and another type
of vehicle. In 40 percent (939) of these crashes the other vehicle was
turning left while the motorcycle was going straight, passing, or
overtaking the vehicle. Both vehicles were going straight in 632
crashes (27%).

The greatest potential for a conflict between you and other traffic is
at intersections. It's important to know what might happen long before
reaching an intersection. Driveways and alleys should also be considered
intersections. Traffic around driveways, parking lots, and side streets
can quickly develop into a hazard. It is helpful to follow these four
steps when around an intersection:

* Check for traffic behind
* Check for oncoming traffic
* Check traffic to the left
* Check traffic to the right

Be especially alert at intersections with limited visibility. Be aware
of congested surroundings that could camouflage or hide you. When
stopped, waiting to turn or for a light to change, check behind you
occasionally for vehicles approaching. Flash the brake light as someone
approaches from the rear. Have an escape plan and remain in 1st gear.
When pulling out into an intersection, wait a second or two in case
someone crosses after their light changes to red.

Traffic-actuated signal lights can be troublesome for motorcyclists.
Sensors in the road surface detect the presence of a vehicle and cause
the traffic light to change. Sometimes the sensor may not detect your
presence. To ensure the best chance of being detected, stop where the
sensors are located. They are usually visible in the road surface. Do
not cross the intersection if you cannot trigger the sensor. According
to the Texas Department of Public Safety, there are no provisions in
Texas law that will allow any non-emergency vehicle to bypass a red
light. You will need to turn or change lanes legally when safe then find
another route.

When turning from a stop, skillful clutch and throttle control will help
you maintain proper lane position. Be sure to keep your head and eyes
up, looking where you want to go.

Areas between intersections have their own unique hazards. It is
important when riding to find and maintain a space cushion. That means
to avoid riding in a blind spot and to maintain similar speeds as other
traffic. It is important to watch for vehicles pulling away from a
parked position, and to notice pedestrians stepping into your path.

Most motorists do not consciously look for motorcyclists. Be
conspicuous. Make your presence and intentions known. See and be seen.
Here are a few tips to help you become more conspicuous:

* During daylight ride with your high beams on to alert other motorists
of your presence.

* Wear brightly colored protective gear and a DOT-compliant helmet.
Red, yellow, orange, and white are highly visible and help a rider stand
out.

* Strategically use your lane position to see and be seen.

* Use reflective tape and stickers to make you more visible to other
motorists.

* Use turn signals for every turn or lane change, even if you think no
one will see it.

* Combine hand signals and turn signals to draw more attention to
yourself.

In short, intersections are bad for motorcycles. Approach them with
extreme caution. Be alert. Give yourself every opportunity to SEE and
be seen.

Thanks for your time.

Lenny

Lenny Martin, GG-12, DAFC
AF ISR Agency Motorcycle Coordinator

DSN 969-4536, Comm (210) 977-4536
DSN Fax: 969-5045, Comm (210) 977-5045