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News-Democrat

With the warmer, sunnier weather, more of Illinois' roughly 625,000 motorcyclists are hitting the roads and the Illinois State Police are reminding motorists to watch for them.
The "Start Seeing Motorcycles" campaign reminds car drivers that motorcycles have the same rights and privileges as any other vehicle.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides the following tips for sharing the road with motorcycles:

* Allow the motorcyclist a full lane width. Although it may seem as though there is enough room in the traffic lane for an automobile and a motorcycle, remember the motorcycle needs the room to maneuver safely. Do not share the lane.
* Motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see. Motorcycles have a much smaller profile than vehicles, which can make it more difficult to judge the speed and distance of an approaching motorcycle.
* Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This allows the motorcyclist to anticipate traffic flow and find a safe lane position.
* Remember that motorcyclists are often hidden in a vehicle's blind spot or missed in a quick look due to their smaller size. Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
* Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle - motorcycle signals usually are not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
* Remember that road conditions that are minor annoyances to motorists can pose major hazards to motorcyclists. Motorcyclists may change speed or adjust their position within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffic conditions such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings, and grooved pavement.
* Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, following a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. In dry conditions motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.
The 30 foot motorcycle banner that declares "Start Seeing Motorcycles" will be moved around the metro-east throughout the motorcycle season. Any organization, business or community that wishes to display the banner can contact Trooper Mike Link at [email protected].

Read more: http://www.bnd.com/2010/04/22/1226914/reminder-tis-the-season-to-see.html#ixzz0lrHI1TzY