June Motorcycle Safety Social Media Calendar (31 total)

May 31

1. It takes both motorcyclists and motorists to keep everyone safe. Drivers can help avoid a collision with a motorcyclist by giving extra space on the road, not following closely, and checking in blind spots. #MotorcycleSeason #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafeIndiana

1. What’s The Best Way to Avoid a Crash? Learn from Formal Motorcycle Training Classes

Did you know that more than half of all riders in an accident had less than five month’s experience on the motorcycle they were riding?

The primary cause of accidents includes entering a curve too quickly and the mistake of over-breaking and skidding the rear tire/under-braking the front tire. These errors make it harder to stop, resulting in a potential accident.

Motorcycle training and safety courses prepare motorcyclists for these types of situations.

In these courses you will learn:

Straight-line riding, turning, clutch/throttle control, shifting and stopping Cornering, swerving, and emergency braking The best clothing for comfort and protection The effects of alcohol and drugs Creating a strategy for maintaining time and space margins Vehicle inspection and maintenance

Sign up for a class today at https://www.in.gov/rsi/2367.htm.

Shortened for Twitter: The best way for motorcyclists to stay safe is to take part in professional training that teaches skills, information, and strategies when using a bike on the open road. Sign up for a class today at https://www.in.gov/rsi/2367.htm. #MotorcycleSafety #RSI

2. It’s Cool to be Safe

While head gear might not be the most appealing choice when it comes to riding a motorcycle, helmets can and will save lives in the case of an accident. Helmeted riders are three times more likely to survive head injuries than motorcyclists who choose to ride without one.

Choosing the right helmet can greatly benefit riders in possibly deadly situations. The four basic styles include:

Full-face: coverage over the head, chin, and jaw along with a moveable face shield protecting the rider from wind and road debris.

Three-quarter or open face: The same elements as full-face, but less protection for one’s face and chin.

Partial-coverage or “half”: Coverage is limited on the lower jaw, sides, and back of the head. Modular or “flip-up”: Gives the protection of a full-face helmet along with a chin bar/face shield

that can rotate up, allowing for an open-face. This accommodates those who want to have eyewear on during a ride.

In addition, make sure the helmet has an official Department of Transportation (DOT) or Snell Memorial Foundations certification symbol on it. This ensures that the helmet meets test standards.

Shortened for Twitter: It’s cool to be safe. Make sure you invest in the right type of helmet that can and will protect you from deadly situations. Check out https://www.nhtsa.gov/motorcycle-safety/choose-right-motorcycle-helmet to see what style best suits you.

3. Don’t be Another Statistic

Due to their less protected and visible frame, motorcyclists accounted for 55 percent of traffic related crashes involving another vehicle in 2018, a statistic that should scare those who aren’t careful when it comes to sharing the road. It’s critical that both motorists and motorcyclists look out for one another when it comes to safety on the open road. It’s on all of us to #RideSafe and #ShareTheRoad together.

Shortened for Twitter: It’s critical for both motorists and motorcyclists look out for one another when it comes to safety on the open road. It’s on all of us to #RideSafe and #ShareTheRoad together.

4. Get Road Ready with an Indiana Motorcycle Endorsement

Of those motorcyclists in 2018 that crashed, more than half did not have the proper motorcycle endorsement. The best way to avoid these dangerous situations is to obtain a motorcycle endorsement by completing a motorcycle safety course. To find a motorcycle safety or training course near you, visit RideSafeIndiana.com

Shortened for Twitter: The best way to avoid a crash is to get your motorcycle endorsement. Obtain your motorcycle endorsement by completing a safety course through a Ride Safe Indiana provider. Check out RideSafeIndiana.com for more information. #MotorcycleSeason #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafeIndiana

5. “Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles”

Due to their smaller frame and stature, it’s important to understand the differences when operating and sharing the road with motorcyclists. Some important notes to keep in mind while sharing the road include:

Look twice for motorcycles at intersections. Check all blind spots when switching lanes. Create a bigger distance gap between you and a motorcycle. Give motorcycles the whole width of a lane. Drive sober.

Shortened for Twitter: It’s important to understand the major differences between motor vehicles and motorcycles. Keep in mind to always look twice for motorcycles, use turn signals, check blind spots, give enough room, and drive sober. #RideSafeIndiana.

6. Best Way to Not Get Pulled Over? Ride Sober.

One of the worst feelings is looking in your side mirror and seeing those flashing blue and red lights. The best way to avoid getting pulled over is to ride sober. Riding under the influence of alcohol and drugs can impair your judgement, balance, control and ability to operate a bike. Not to mention, in 2017 28% of motorcyclists were drunk when they were killed in a crash. Make sure to ALWAYS #RideSmart and #RideSober.

Shortened for Twitter: The best way to avoid getting pulled over is to ride sober. In 2017, 28% of motorcyclists involved in fatal accidents were under the influence. Make sure to ALWAYS #RideSmart and #RideSober. #RideSafeIndiana

7. #ItTakesTwo to share the roads. Both motorcyclists and motorists should look both ways and always check blind spots twice in order to make Indiana roads safe. #RideSafeIndiana

8. Are you #RoadReady? Before you go out on the road, make sure you bring a helmet, wear proper protective clothing, and bring your license with the proper motorcycle endorsement to keep all Hoosiers safe.

9. Report any road hazards or conditions that may be dangerous to motorcyclists at RoadHazard.org by filling out the online notification form. Keep our Indiana roads safe by looking out for others and remembering to always #RideSafeIndiana

10. Just like life, the roads can be unpredictable.

When out riding, make sure to keep a careful watch for changing weather conditions including rain and wind. Strong winds from different sides can cause a rider to shift positions and balance in order to remain in control of their motorcycle. When it’s raining, a biker’s best bet is to pull over and wait for the

rain to end. Once the rain stops, riders should be cautious of oil at the surface of puddles and of limited traction on the road.

In addition, animals can pose a threat to motorcyclists. The most likely culprit are dogs as some will attempt to chase or run in front of your motorcycle. The best way to avoid a situation is to slow down, use your horn, speed up to throw off the timing of an interception, keep an eye out for multiple animals, and don’t panic.

Shortened for Twitter: The roads can be unpredictable. Riders should keep an eye out for changing weather patterns as well as the unpredictable nature of animals. In both cases, remain calm and slow down. #RideSafeIndiana

11. #HowTo Emergency Brake:

Apply both brakes to their max, just short of locking them up.

Keep the motorcycle upright and moving in a straight line.

Release the front brake and reapply if the front tire has locked up or is skidding.

If your rear wheel locks up, don’t release the brake and make sure your handlebars are aligned. This will cause you to skid in a straight line.

Do NOT brake when swerving.

The best way to learn these methods is to sign up for a class at https://www.in.gov/rsi/2367.htm.

Shortened for Twitter: When emergency braking, make sure to apply the brakes to the max, keep your bike upright and moving straight, and do NOT break when swerving. The best way to learn these methods is to sign up for a class RideSafeIndiana.com.

12. Factors other than alcohol and drugs can impair a motorist’s judgement. Fatigue can affect your riding as well.

Motorcycles cause riders fatigue more than the standard car. Fatigue can cause a loss in balance, mobility, and reaction time. Weather conditions such as rain, wind, and cold temperature can cause fatigue making protective clothing critical for riders. For longer rides, consider using a windshield.

It is important to keep track of time, as six hours of riding a day can wear out even the most experienced motorcyclists. One tip is to stop and take a break every two hours.

Shortened for Twitter: Fatigue can cause a loss in balance, mobility, and reaction time. As a motorcyclist make sure to keep an eye out for harsh weather conditions and the time spent on a motorcycle. RideSafe and #RideSmart. #RideSafeIndiana

13. Did you know fatal motorcycle collisions have decreased by 30% from 2017 to 2018? Let’s see if we can lower this number even further by riding safe this year and looking out for one another. #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafeIndiana #DYK

14. Motorcyclists- Not only watch out for yourself but also your friends while out on the road. Make sure there is ample space between each rider and to wear bright clothing. Keep those you love safe. #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafeIndiana

15. The warm air means it’s motorcycle season! Make sure you #RideSafe and #ShareTheRoad with all motorists. It takes everyone to make Indiana roads safe. Check out RideSafeIndiana.com to learn more about #MotorcycleSafety.

16. Did you know that Ride Safe Indiana providers offers three safety and training courses including an entry level training course, an advanced skills training course, and a three wheel motorcycle entry level safety course? Learn more at RideSafeIndiana.com for more information. #RideSafeIndiana #MotorcycleSafety #DYK

17. Buying a motorcycle can be exciting. The thought of the wind against your face as you ride down the street on your new motorcycle can be exhilarating. However, there are some things you need to know

before buying a new motorcycle, especially one that has been used before. Here are some tips when it comes to buying a used bike:

Check for oil leaks Check the tire wear Check for any damage such as dents or scratches Check the filter and fluids Check the drive chain Check the lights Check the brakes Check the transmission

Shortened for Twitter: Before buying a used motorcycle, make sure to check it out for oil leaks, tire wear, damage, check the filter and fluids, drive chain, lights, brakes, and the transmission. #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafeIndiana

18. Did you know that in 2018, Ride Safe Indiana training courses had an 87% passing rate? RSI continues to effectively educate and train students on the importance of safety and motorcycles. Sign up for a class today at https://www.in.gov/rsi/index.html

19. Group rides along the open road can be a great way to ride and have fun with your friends. When riding in groups there are few key tips to remember to keep everyone safe:

Arrive prepared Be on time Have a full tank of gas Meet the group rider and the sweep rider (the one who brings up the rear)

Study the route along with fuel, meals, and rest stops Ask what hand signals will be used Discuss what to do if someone breaks down or gets separated

In addition, riding in a set formation is best for keeping both motorcyclists and motorists safe.

Staggered formation maintains spacing, takes up less road space, and allows better visibility for cars. This formation can be tight (better for heavy traffic) or loose. The leader rides in the left third of a lane, the next starts at least one second behind in the right third of the lane, and the third one repeats this pattern on the left third.

Single-file formation is best for when motorcyclists need more room to maneuver such as riding on curves or ramps in low-visibility. Riders should have a two-second gap between one another.

Remember, safety is more important than keeping the group together. Establishing guidelines and standard rules before going out in group rides is the best way to keep everyone safe on the roads.

Shortened for Twitter: Before going on a group ride, it’s best to establish a start and end time, a route, a formation, and discuss what to do when people get separated or need to stop. Preparing beforehand will make it easier in the long run for all motorists involved. #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafe

20. Riding at night is the worst time for motorcyclist to see and be seen. Make sure to slow down at intersections and curves, watch for hazards, give you and the driver in front room, watch for headlights, wear a clear face shield, and be alert for drunk drivers. #RideSafe #MotorcycleSafety

21. Did you know that the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,859 motorcyclists in 2016 and could

have saved 802 lives? Make sure to get your DOT approved helmet today and avoid becoming a statistic. #RideSafe #MotorcycleSafety #DYK

22. As the weather heats up, the more you’ll see motorcyclists on the roads. Make sure to always check your blind spots and give them enough space to brake. #MotorcycleSafety

23. Did you know that Ride Safe Indiana is Indiana’s approved motorcycle safety program within the Bureau of Motor Vehicles? Our mission is to train more motorcyclists and educate motorists in order to decrease motorcycle fatalities and accidents. #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafe

24. Did you know that RSI has 18 providers and 202 total number of certified instructors? Sign up for a RSI course today at https://www.in.gov/rsi/index.html and learn more about how to keep everyone safe #DYK #RideSafe #MotorcycleSafety

25. Did you know that most of Indiana’s standard and specialty license plates can be placed on a motorcycle too? Learn more about how to register your motorcycle and get your plate at https://www.in.gov/bmv/2457.htm?platform=hootsuite.

26. According to the NHSTA, a DUI on average costs $10,000, can result in jail time, loss of your driver’s license, and higher insurance rates? Aside from these costs, the greatest risk is taking your or someone else’s life. Always ride sober and keep Indiana safe #MotorcycleSafety #RideSafe

27. Find the right motorcycle for you! Your motorcycle must “fit” meaning your feet should rest flat on the ground while you are seated, and the controls should be easy to operate. Smaller, lighter, and less powerful motorcycles are best for beginners. Some of the standard bikes include:

Standard motorcycles Cruisers Sport bikes Touring bikes Dual-purpose bike

Shortened for Twitter: Find the right #Motorcycle for you! Your motorcycle must “fit” meaning your feet should rest flat on the ground while you are seated, and the controls should be easy to operate.

28. Did you know that according to the NHTSA, of the motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes in 2017, 29% were riding without a motorcycle license? Don’t become another statistic. Learn more about how to get your valid license here https://www.in.gov/rsi/2332.htm.

29. Are you new to #Indiana? Learn how to transfer your motorcycle endorsement to your Indiana license after passing a motorcycle knowledge exam so you can hit the open road this summer at https://www.in.gov/rsi/2331.htm?platform=hootsuite.

30. Did you know that RSI has over 30 locations across the state of Indiana ready to teach you motorcycle basics or help long-time learn new skills? Find a provider near you at www.RideSafeIndiana.com. #MotorcycleSafety