Mediaroom

Scroll to next section

July 29, 2013 - As Travelers Head out on the Road for Summer Vacation, Safety Should be Top of Mind

Summer is here, and soon vacationers will hit the road to enjoy the sunshine and some relaxation. But before taking off, it’s important that motorists take precautions to ensure they arrive at the destination safely. Larry Barrington, education director at Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) in Phoenix, provides helpful information for everyone on the road.

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY

Motorcyclists need to be especially careful when on the road with the larger vehicles around them, and take every precaution to make their presence known to other drivers. Keep these tips in mind, before and during your trip:

  • Check it out. Before you hit the road, have your motorcycle inspected by an experienced, professional motorcycle technician who is able to offer a trustworthy, honest appraisal of its condition.
  • Pack it up. In the event that something goes wrong and you need to make minor repairs on your trip, keep a travel tool pouch on your motorcycle.
  • Sort it out. Gather your clothes and equipment to pack and organize how it will be arranged on your motorcycle. Include any camping gear, toiletries, cooking equipment, special outfits for events and clothes to wear on the road. Include a rain slicker in case of bad weather. Do not overload your motorcycle and, as always, don’t forget the sunscreen!
  • Be a safe driver. According to the latest statistics, motorcycle drivers comprise the highest percentage of drunk drivers in fatal crashes. Be responsible and don’t get on your motorcycle after drinking.

CAR SAFETY

Those traveling by car also need to take caution when hitting the pavement for the summer. There are not only more cars on the road, but motorcycles, too. Keep these safety tips in mind to avoid car/motorcycle accidents:

  • Look twice. The number one rule is look, then look again for motorcyclists. Many car/motorcycle accidents happen at intersections when a car turns in front of a motorcyclist because the motorist didn't "see" the motorcycle. At other times, drivers miss motorcycles that are hidden in the car's blind spot. Take an extra moment to look for motorcycles, whether you're changing lanes or turning at intersections.
  • Keep your distance. Stay at least two car lengths behind a motorcycle. If you rear end another car, the car driver is more protected. Motorcycle riders are completely exposed and even a minor collision can cause serious injury.
  • Understand why they do that. Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to stay out of cars' blind spots and be seen more easily, as well as to minimize the effects of road debris, passing vehicles and wind. Be aware that motorcyclists move within their lane for a purpose, not to be reckless or show off.
  • Watch out for groups. Remember that where there is one motorcycle, often there are several motorcycles traveling together, especially during high travel seasons. Mentally program yourself to not only look, and look again, for that first motorcycle, but also to keep an eye out for any other motorcyclists who may be traveling as a group.

For more information about MMI, visit www.uti.edu. Follow MMI-Phoenix on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mmiphoenix and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/utitweet.

Search
Getting Started
Becoming a Student
About Us
Resources
Contact

1) UTI cannot guarantee employment or salary.

2) For important information about the educational debt, earnings and completion rates of students who attended this program, and to review the applicable Gainful Employment disclosure, visit our website at www.uti.edu/disclosures.

5) UTI programs prepare graduates for careers in industries using the provided training, primarily as automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as a technician, such as: parts associate, service writer, fabricator, paint and paint prep, and shop owner/operator. UTI cannot guarantee employment or salary.

14) Incentive programs and employee eligibility are at the discretion of the employer and available at select locations. Special conditions may apply. Talk to potential employers to learn more about the programs available in your area. UTI cannot guarantee employment or salary.

© 2018 Universal Technical Institute, Inc. All rights reserved.