Hometown News
This year, the NMDOT is partnering with Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to host the first-ever free RIDE Day events in New Mexico to further promote awareness and safety around motorcycles on the road. The NMDOT will also be sharing safety tips and other educational resources on social media throughout the month, so please tune-in for additional updates (Facebook, X, and Instagram).
RIDE Day Event Information:
RIDE Day events offer non-riders the opportunity to try a motorcycle for the first time and provides current riders a chance to ride their own machines in practice exercises designed to sharpen their skills. The RIDE Days will be held on Friday, May 17, and Saturday, May 18, at the RIDE New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Program’s (NMMSP) Albuquerque RiderCourse, 3401 Pan American Fwy 87107. Both days are completely free to attend, no registration is required, and will offer opportunities for a skills check for current riders and a moto intro for beginners. For additional information on the free RIDE days call 505-312-8430 or 877-667-8880.
Tips for Motorcyclists:
Motorcyclists must take extra precautions to guard against drivers who may not see them. The following precautions can help to prevent a fatal crash with a vehicle:
- Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and other protective gear.
- Obey all traffic laws and be properly licensed.
- Use hand and turn signals at every lane change or turn.
- Wear brightly colored clothes and reflective tape to increase visibility.
- Never ride while impaired or distracted.
Tips for Motorists When Sharing the Road:
Drivers can help curb motorcycle accidents, injuries, and fatalities when they:
- Observe all traffic signs, signals, and laws.
- Yield to Motorcyclists, especially in intersections.
- Avoid distractions, including dangerous cell phone use behind the wheel.
- Use turn signals when changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- Check all mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
- Allow for more distance-beyond three to four seconds-when behind a motorcycle.
