With the HOG Rally in town, 'Look Twice and Save A Life'

The Florida Harley Owners Group Rally in Lakeland runs through this weekend and promises to be one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the state. More than 1,200 Harley riders are expected to use Sun ‘n Fun, an aviation-centric facility featuring runways, hangers and wide open spaces, as the epicenter of their Polk County activities for music and entertainment before taking to areas streets and scenic back roads. Fun, music, competitions and more will be on the agenda, much of which the public is welcome to attend – as long as they promise to watch out for motorcyclists.

According to statistics, while motorcyclists make up just 7 percent of motorists in the state, they account for 19 percent of the fatalities, according to a 2016 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While motorcyclists can do their part to help prevent accidents, car drivers should remember that road safety is a two way street.

A second look is worth the wait: Motorcycles can be hidden in your mirror’s blind spot or appear further away than they are. That second look may save someone’s life.

Leave more room: Motorcycles take nearly twice as long to come to a stop as does a car, so leave extra room when trailing a motorcycle.

Motorcycles act differently: Unlike a car, a motorcycle may weave back and forth in a lane, either to avoid debris or to avoid being in a blind spot.

Not all bikes are loud: Just because you don’t hear the bike doesn’t mean it isn’t there.

Turn signals: Motorcycle turn signals are not self-cancelling. Never assume a bike is turning just because its signal is on.

Look for motorcycles: Some drivers don’t “recognize” a motorcycle because there are so few on the road. Instead, look for motorcycles, especially at intersections.

For more information about activities during the 2016 Florida HOG Rally, visit flstatehogrally.com. For more information about driver safety, visit the www.forcardrivers.com.