JEFFERSON CITY -It's springtime in Missouri and everyone wants to be outdoors, and motorcyclists everywhere are eager to hit the road. Riders will be polishing that chrome and tuning those engines for weekend rides, rallies and runs. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety wants to remind motorists and motorcyclists alike to "Watch for Motorcycles" in order to help prevent motorcycle crashes, deaths and injuries on Missouri's roadways.

"Motorcyclists have the same rights and privileges as any other drivers on the roadway," said Bill Whitfield, executive committee chair of the coalition. "However, drivers of cars and trucks often don't see motorcycles until the last second, or sometimes not at all." 

In 2014, 87 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes on Missouri roadways. By following a few basic safety rules, we can all help prevent crashes. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers the following tips to drivers on how to prevent a fatal crash with a motorcycle:

•         Allow the motorcycle the full width of a lane at all times.

•         Always signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic.

•         Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections.

•         Never drive distracted or impaired.

Motorcyclists must also take precautions to remain safe on the road. Motorcyclists can increase their safety by following these steps:

•         Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and other protective gear.

•         Obey all traffic laws and be properly licensed and trained.

•         Wear brightly colored clothes and reflective tape to increase visibility.

•         Ride in the middle of the lane where you will be more visible to drivers.

•         Never ride distracted or impaired.

•         Anticipate the moves of other drivers and be extra cautious of road conditions and debris.

Motorcycle experts recommend motorcyclists also complete some type of training before getting out on the road. There are 31 training locations in Missouri. You can find the one nearest you at http://www.mmsp.org/.