Preparation Is Key For Biker Safety
By: Elyse Miller News Channel 3 Reporter emiller@kesq.com
This weekend was ” American Heat” bike week in downtown Palm Springs. Thousands of bikers filled the streets. Police were are also out in full force making sure motorcycle riders follow the rules and drive safe. The Palm Desert Police Department held a specialized motorcycle safety operation Saturday evening through Sunday early morning. Officers were checking to make sure the weekend was safe for everyone on the road.
In California, motorcycle deaths are up 175 percent in the past 10 years, killing 560 californians in 2008.
“If you hit the pavement it goes through to your skin and bone quick,” says Tom Roach, Co-Owner of Palm Springs Harley Davidson. ” If a car hits you, there is nothing around you.”
Bike experts say, to stay safe you must prepare, practice and be aware.
“You never know when something is going to happen,” says Roach.
Motorcycle popularity is also on the rise, which is clear at ” American Heat” bike week in Palm Springs.
Thousands of bikes line the streets, as people check out other bikes and equipment, and this equipment can save lives.
“Always have a helmet, gloves, leathers, boots,” says Michael Roach, Co-Owner of Palm Springs Harley Davidson.
Experts say, before getting on a bike get trained.
“You have to be a defensive driver and be abe to react to situations,” says Tom Roach. ” Be able to stop a bike, swerve a bike and stay out of danger.”
A big part of that danger is viability. Bikers can easy fall into the blind spots of other vehicles.
“You have to assume cars don’t see you,” says Tom Roach. ” You want to be obvious to them. Run your headlights, wear bright clothing.”
However, no matter how experienced or prepared a rider is, no one is immune to the dangers of speeding or drinking and driving. These are two of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents.
“I will never get on a bike with someone who has been drinking,” says Gipsy ( did not want to give her real name).
“Obey the law,” says Michael Roach.
