Rider safety and awareness is a growing concern. That's why Allstate remains committed to protecting your motorcycle's most important part: You. At Allstate, we believe that motorcycle safety is a two-way street, and continue to support efforts to provide ongoing motorcycle safety education and awareness efforts, but we need your help, too. Stay smart. Stay Safe. Join the movement - help us spread the message to all who share the road and together we can make the world a better place to ride.
We know how important it is to raise awareness about motorcycle safety. That's why we place so much importance on addressing motorcycle crashes at intersections via our Allstate Rider Protection Project and the O.N.E. program.
Did you know that 46% of all motorcycle crashes occur at intersections? Or that, on average, three motorcyclists are killed every day in the U.S. as a result of multi-vehicle crashes at intersections? Those statistics are shocking, and we believe they can be lowered significantly. That's why, on behalf of riders everywhere, we're working with departments of transportation across the country to install caution signs at intersections that encourage traffic to watch for motorcycles.
Over the past two years, we've installed caution signs at intersections in more than 30 cities on a temporary basis, and in 2012 we are working with the Federal Highway Administration to install them permanently around the country. To learn more about what we're doing to increase motorcycle awareness at intersections, visit the Allstate Rider Protection Project tab on our Facebook page. While you're there, join the conversation. Together, we can make the world a better place to ride.
Before you hit the road after a long winter, give your bike the once-over.
- Test the lights, brakes, and turn signals.
- Check the oil and fuel levels.
- Make sure the mirrors are positioned correctly.
- Check the cables to make sure they aren't worn or frayed.
- Lube the chain and adjust it according to the manufacturer's specs.
- Try a rider-training course to brush up on your skills.
When you're on the open road, there's not much between you and the pavement. Wearing tough gear is always a smart move.
- Pick a high-quality helmet that fits well. If it doesn't have a face shield, pair it up with goggles or glasses with safety lenses.
- Use safety as your excuse to shell out for that leather jacket. Get the pants while you're at it. (We know black and bikes are a perfect match, but a bright color will help other drivers see you better.)
- Wear durable non-slip gloves.
- Invest in boots or sneakers that cover your ankles.
Let's be honest: There's a lot of stuff out there that's bigger than your bike. But there's a lot you can do to help keep yourself safe while riding.
- Always wear a helmet that fits right. Pick one that has the DOT label, which shows that it meets federal safety standards.
- Know your bike's limits.
- Stick to the speed limit.
- Don't tailgate other vehicles.
- Use your signals.
- Be respectful of other drivers. Don't weave through traffic or drive on the shoulder.
- Make sure other drivers can see you. Don't ride in blind spots and always use your headlights.
- Brake smart. Use both brakes at the same time, slow and steady.