2023 Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

May has been designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, an important initiative dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of everyone who rides a motorcycle and all those who share our country’s roads. 

As we approach the summer season and embark on road trips, it becomes vital for all drivers to be aware of and considerate towards those on two wheels who may occupy their blind spots. While motorcyclists possess the same rights and deserve the same consideration as drivers of four-wheeled vehicles, motorcycles constitute a minority on the road.

Ensuring the safety of motorcyclists is a shared responsibility. Statistics reveal that in collisions involving motorcycles and four-wheeled vehicles, it is often the driver of the non-motorcycle vehicle who fails to yield the right of way to the motorcyclist.

There are several common factors that contribute to the discounting of motorcycles on the road. Recognizing and addressing these factors can help prevent future motorcycle fatalities and serious injuries:

  • Motorcycles are relatively smaller in size compared to other vehicles
  • Drivers sometimes fail to anticipate the movements of motorcycles
  • Motorists’ view of motorcyclists may be obstructed by blind spots in their own vehicles or the presence of other vehicles
  • Drivers may become distracted while operating their vehicles

By being mindful of these everyday circumstances, we can actively contribute to the safety of motorcyclists on the road and help reduce accidents. Join Inserra Kelley Sewell in prioritizing motorcycle safety and a harmonious coexistence among all road users.

5 Tips for National Bicycle Safety Month

Bicycling offers numerous health benefits that contribute to overall well-being, including improved physical fitness, cardiovascular health, mental well-being, joint mobility, weight management, and more. 

This enjoyable pastime can also result in injury, which is why it’s so important to take precautions to protect yourself and others. 

In recognition of National Bicycle Safety Month, here are 5 tips to stay safe while cycling. 

  1. Always wear a properly fitting bicycle helmet when on a bicycle. This helps prevent serious head injuries in case of a fall or collision. 
  2. Follow traffic rules. Bicyclists should obey the same traffic laws as motorists. Ride in the same direction as traffic, use hand signals to indicate turns, and obey traffic signals and signs. 
  3. Be mindful of pedestrians. Yield to them when necessary, announce your presence, and use designated bike lanes whenever available.
  4. Enhance your visibility by wearing bright, reflective clothing and equipping your ride with lights and reflectors. 
  5. Ride predictably and defensively. Ride in a predictable manner to help motorists anticipate your movements, be aware of your surroundings at all times, and anticipate potential hazards.

Bonus Tip: get regular maintenance! Ensure your bicycle is in good working condition by conducting regular maintenance checks. Check your brakes, tires, and gears before each ride. Properly inflated tires with good tread provide better control and reduce the risk of accidents.

Bicycle safety is paramount. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.

 

Young unrecognizable man on exercise bike in gym. Male legs in fitness club. Healthy lifestyle concept

Peloton Recalls 2.2 Million Exercise Bikes Due to Safety Hazard

Peloton is issuing a recall for 2 million exercise bicycles due to safety concerns, marking the second major recall faced by the fitness company.

According to an announcement from the Consumer Product Safety Commission on Thursday, the seat post of the bikes has the potential to break while in use, posing a risk of falls and injuries to users.

The CPSC reported that Peloton has already received 35 complaints of the seat post breaking and detaching from the bike during usage. Among these incidents, 13 reports included injuries such as fractured wrists, lacerations, and bruises.

In response, the CPSC advised consumers to immediately stop using the recalled exercise bikes and to contact Peloton for a free repair. Peloton is offering customers a complimentary seat post that can be self-installed.

This is not the first large-scale recall faced by Peloton. In May 2021, the company was compelled to recall 125,000 Tread+ treadmills following the tragic death of a child and other safety issues associated with the machines.

Affected Model
The affected model is Peloton Bikes Model PL01. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled exercise bikes and contact Peloton for a free repair. Peloton is offering consumers a free seat post that can be self-installed.

If you or someone you know has been injured by a Peloton product, please call the experts at Inserra Kelley Sewell today for a free consultation.