For thousands of Americans, motorcycling is a lifestyle, passion, past time and even a profession. Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists. However motorcyclists face unusual dangers because motorcycles can be hard to see (even in daylight hours), and they require exceptional handling ability. Here are some tips to help you share the road with motorcyclists.

• Look for motorcycles — Wisconsin has a large number of registered motorcycles. Although our riding season is not year-round, motorcyclists ride in all kinds of weather conditions.
• Check your mirrors — Before making a turn or a lane change, check your rear-view mirrors for motorcycles. Because they are smaller than four-wheeled vehicles, motorcycles may be more difficult to see.
• Check your blind spots — Just checking your mirrors before maneuvering your vehicle is not enough. All vehicles have blind spots. Turn your head to check those dangerous areas before turning, changing lanes, or backing up.
• Signal your intentions — Before making a turn or a lane change, use your turn signals to alerts other roadway users. All motorists, especially motorcyclists, appreciate knowing your intentions.
• Watch your turns — Many multi-vehicle crashes involving motorcycles are the result of the driver turning into the path of the motorcycle. Left turns are particularly dangerous, because many drivers misjudge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle. When in doubt, wait it out.
• Create some space — Skilled motorcyclists are safe operators. Give them room to maneuver and avoid tailgating.
• Avoid driver distractions — Any activity inside a motor vehicle can distract the driver enough to cause a crash. Driving is not a part-time job.
• They're your neighbors — Motorcyclists come from all walks of life. Perhaps your neighbor, a co-worker, or even a family member rides a motorcycle. To learn more about why people ride motorcycles, just ask them. Many are happy to share their enthusiasm for riding.
• Determining speed and distance of motorcycle — Determining speed of an oncoming motorcycle is difficult especially at night or in inclement weather. When you spot a motorcycle, make sure you have accurately judged its speed and distance. Always give the scene a second look.
• Passing and being passed — Both motorcyclist and vehicle should avoid accelerating when being passed. Both rider and driver should use mirrors and head checks to ensure the passing maneuver can be done safely. Vehicles should avoid returning to the original lane too soon. This could cause the motorcyclist to swerve into traffic to avoid you or run off the roadway.