Missouri - Warm weather means enjoying the beautiful outdoors, and motorcyclists across the state are doing just that. As they're tuning those engines and polishing that chrome one last time, 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.

"Many motorcyclists will be out as the weather gets warmer, which is why May is the perfect time for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month," said Dr. Leanna Depue, executive committee chair of the coalition. "By following 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:

•         Although a motorcycle is a small vehicle, the operator still has the same rights of the road as any other motorist. 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.

Very often, drivers of cars and trucks don't see motorcycles until the last second, or sometimes not at all. Motorcycle operators have to 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 29 training locations in Missouri. You can find the one nearest you at http://www.mmsp.org/.

For more information, visit http://www.savemolives.com/ or Facebook and Twitter at Save MO Lives.  Arrive Alive.