As the weather warms up, more motorcyclists will be out in traffic. With the safety of motorcyclists and all drivers in mind, May is designated each year as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Remember these important safety tips to Arrive Alive at your destination.

Vehicle Drivers:

• Share the Road. Research shows that in one-half of all motorcycle crashes, another type of motor vehicle is also involved.

• Look out. Motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see.

• Respect the motorcyclist. Motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the road. Allow the motorcyclist a full lane width.

• Allow more following distance. Allow three or four seconds when following a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.

• Anticipate obstacles. Road conditions that are minor annoyances to a regular vehicle pose major hazards to motorcyclists. Motorcyclists may change speed or adjust their position within a lane suddenly in reaction to potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings and grooved pavement.

Motorcyclists:

• Wear a helmet. The single most important safety device a motorcyclist can have is a helmet. In a crash without one, you are five times more likely to suffer a serious injury than a helmeted rider. In Missouri, it is illegal to ride without a helmet.

• Wear proper gear. High-quality riding clothes will help prevent or reduce injury. Choose brightly colored gear when possible to make yourself visible in traffic. Wear gloves to improve your grip and boots to protect your feet and ankles.

• Do not share a lane. Cars and motorcycles require a full lane to operate and maneuver safely. Do not share a lane with an automobile or another motorcycle.

• Stay sober. Studies have shown that 40 to 45 percent of all fatal motorcycle crashes involve the use of alcohol.

• Receive proper training. Research has shown that more than 90 percent of all riders involved in crashes were either self-taught or taught by friends.