related to distracted drivers or limited visibility
Two days ago there was an accident on a road that I frequent. The accident involved an SUV and a motorcycle, it was fatal. The father of a classmate was killed instantly because of a suspected distracted driver. This scene takes places nearly every day in locations all around the United States and is only getting worse. This is the second time this summer I have known the victim of a motorcycle accident due to these circumstances. It needs to cease.
I ride a 1986 Honda Rebel. Before I took to the streets, I took to the books. I took a motorcycle safety course. I dragged my husband, a long time rider with me. In the course we learned that motorcycle safety has changed. The way they teach has been forever altered by distracted driving. No longer do they teach to ride the inside lane because drivers are often drifting over the center lane while their eyes are cast down towards a screen. One common theme during the safety course was to have an avenue of escape. To be act as if we are not seen because the odds are that people will miss a two-wheeler.
I implore you to stop driving and using cell phones. If it is important pull over. If you are drowsy, don’t get behind the wheel. Not only is your life at risk but those of my friends and family. Multi-tasking has no place inside of a car.
What can we do together to stop distracted driving? We can work towards harsher and more widespread legislation. Laws that punish and restrict cell phone use. We can raise awareness and share our stories. As a mom, I teach my son that we don’t use cell phones while we are driving. As a family, we count motorcycles like “slug bugs” then we naturally teach to be on the lookout for motorcycles. Be a good role model for those in your life.
Motorcyclists routinely fundraise and support local causes. They are a community of amazing individuals. Do not let these lives of these motorcyclist go down in vain. Let their stories be known and look twice. It could save a life.