Risks Distracted Drivers Pose to Motorcycle Riders
Based on figures from the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), distracted driving played a factor in 80 percent of all accidents involving a motorcycle rider. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving injures 20,000 motorcycle riders and kills another 400 to 500 annually. Distracted driving encompasses a wide range of behaviors:
- Texting
- Talking on the phone
- Eating or reading
- Applying makeup
- Brushing hair
- Talking to other passengers
- Tuning the radio
- Wearing headphones
- Using a GPS
All of these actions can cause drivers to take their eyes off the road, increasing the chance they will miss a stop sign, go through an intersection or hit a passing vehicle. Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable, due to their smaller size and lack of enclosure. Motorists may misjudge how far away a bike is or miss a motorcycle in their blind spot.
Especially in early spring, drivers may not be expecting to see motorcycles and could react too late. As a rider, keep your head on a swivel and always proceed into intersections with caution. For your safety, what else should you think about?
Dangers of Phone Use Behind the Wheel
At any given moment, an estimated 800,000 US drivers are texting behind the wheel. This behavior is responsible for:
- 1.6 million accidents annually
- 25 percent of all car accidents
- Elevated crash risks
- Decreased brake reaction
- 11 teen deaths every day
As of 2018, 16 states and the District of Columbia ban talking on a cell phone or other hand-held device while driving. Forty-seven states and D.C. forbid texting and driving.
Identifying Distracted Driving
As a motorcycle rider, how can you tell someone is distracted behind the wheel?
- They weave in and out of traffic
- They drive over the center line
- You spot them wearing headphones
- They brake suddenly
- Their vehicle stays stopped at a green light
For your first trip, choose a familiar destination where you already know the roads. However, potholes and uneven pavement may not be addressed by early spring. Even a route you know well could present a few riding challenges.
You can never be too careful, even when circling the block to get back in the swing of things. Prepare for uneven pavement, potholes, accidents and unpredictable weather with the right riding gear:
It’s very important to submit your events on time and with accurate information. Once the booklet goes to print, we cannot make any changes to your event. Please send the following information to 
Although there’s no set timeline, those in the Northeast often retire their bike toward the end of October or whenever the temperatures turn noticeably cooler. On the other hand, some people extend it until there’s no more sun. Through a combination of these factors, your bike should be prepared and covered before the season’s first snowfall.
For the first – and perhaps most crucial – part of their progression, Harley-Davidson 
Summertime brings a tremendous amount of traffic to roadways statewide. Be sure to watch out for all vehicles, including cars, trucks and bicycles, as well as pedestrians.
Tickets are $30 in advance and include the scenic motorcycle ride and admission to the concert. They can be purchased at:
Sun Valley Beach Club is a family-owned and operated private campground in Stafford Springs. The lake covers 10 acres of peaceful land, including 300 seasonal camping spots. Four Seasons By the Lake at Sun Valley, formerly known as Clubhouse Café, is the new on-site restaurant to enjoy a meal overlooking the water. 
For your own safety and the safety of others sharing the road, never assume your motorcycle is ready to ride. If your bike has been in storage all winter, it likely needs some work. Be sure to check the following components before rolling out: