file photo at The Office Bar & Grill Hosts 7th Annual Bike Show to benefit the Tomorrow’s Childrens Fund
Ridgewood Police offer Motorcyclist Safety Tips:
A motorcycle riders’ best defense against injury is to obey laws and wear protective clothing and equipment:
Helmet – In New Jersey, motorcyclists are required by law to wear a DOT (FMVSS 218) approved helmet.
Eye Protection – Glasses, Goggles or a Shield
Jacket – Sturdy, Long Sleeved and Abrasion-Resistant
Pants – Well-Fitting and Abrasion-Resistant
Footwear – Sturdy, Over-the-Ankle Boots
Hand Wear – Well-Fitting, Full-Fingered Gloves
Drive Defensively – Assume motorists do not see you and plan escape routes.
Make Yourself Visible – Wear bright colored and reflective clothing. Do not linger in “blind spots”. Adjust your lane position.
Give Yourself Time and Space to React – Do not tailgate. Use the “Two Second Rule” or the “Four Second Rule” to create space between you and vehicles ahead of you.
Avoid Sudden Braking or Turning When Driving on Wet Roads or Gravel – With only two tires, motorcycles have less tire traction than other vehicles.
Enhance Your Skills with Education – New Jersey offers various safety and skill courses, for riders new and old. For further information regarding motorcycle safety programs, please call NJ MVC (609) 633-9308, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Never drink alcohol or take medications while riding.
Never ride if you are tired.
Do not create your own lane when on the road. You are driving a vehicle like a car or truck. There are no special short cuts.