Some Safety Tips As Police Crack Down on Bikers

, we thought we’d share some of the biker-related safety tips.

While some the tips may be familiar, there are a few you may not have heard before.

For drivers

• Motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars. Don't tailgate them. In fact, don't tailgate any vehicle. 
• When behind a motrocycle, allow more following distance than you would for a car or truck. Give bikers at least three or four seconds worth of space. This gives them enough time to maneuver or stop in case of an emergency.
• Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling, and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you drive forward.
• Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a traffic lane or an intersection.
• Always signal before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
• Never drive while distracted.

For bikers

• Position yourself in the lane where you’ll be most visible to other drivers.
• Never drive while impaired.
• Wear a Department of Transportation compliant helmet.
• Use the motorcycle’s turn signals. It’s California law.
• Combine hand signals and turn signals to draw more attention to yourself.
• Avoid riding in poor weather conditions.
• Wear brightly colored protective gear.
• Use reflective tape and stickers to make it easier for people to see you. 

Information courtesy the Fountain Valley Police Department.