With the arrival of summer and more motorcyclists on road, the state Department of Transportation reminds motorists to safely share the road with motorcycles in observance of National Ride to Work Day on Monday.

Bikers are encouraged to ride the motorcycles on their daily commute on that day, according to a PennDOT news release.

More than 835,000 licensed motorcyclists use the roads and highways of Pennsylvania, and that demographic is about 27 times more likely to die in an accident than occupants of a passenger vehicle.

Bikers are also five times more likely to be injured in an accident, the release said.

“The message seems simple — share the road — but while driving, motorists must be vigilant about watching for motorcycles,” said Joseph Dubovi, PennDOT District 10 executive.

<ul><li>• Be aware that motorcycles are smaller than cars and may be difficult to see. Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and at intersections.</li><li>• Allow more following distance. Leave at least four seconds when following a motorcycle.</li><li>• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.</li><li>• Respect a motorcycle as a full-size vehicle with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the road. Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width as the motorcyclist needs the room to maneuver safely in all conditions.</li><li>• Never drive impaired or distracted.</li></ul>

<ul><li>• Be seen by wearing reflective clothing and put reflective tape on your protective clothing and motorcycle.</li><li>• Wear face or eye protection and a DOT-approved helmet.</li><li>• Use common sense by riding sober, obeying all speed limits and allowing enough time to react to potentially dangerous situations.</li><li>• Know your motorcycle and conduct a pre-ride check of systems.</li><li>• Practice safe riding techniques and know how to maneuver safely in all road conditions.</li></ul>“Sharing the road safely helps ensure that everyone gets to their destination safely,” Dubovi said.