Safety Tips

MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY

Greeting to all the Red Knights out there. Well, spring is almost here and the weather is starting to look really good. We're looking forward to the start of another riding season and lots of good times together. Some of us have maybe not been riding much lately due to the weather so now might be a good time to remind you of some good tips to remember. These come from the Spring Edition of the Red Knight Rider which is the newsletter of the International. It can now be looked at on their website which you can link to from our site. It's time to get your scoot out and get it cleaned up and ready. Call your fellow club members and lets go for a ride.

David Ash

IT'S WORSE THAN YOU THINK

MORE EVIDENCE OF DISTRACTED DRIVERS

If you think distracted drivers are potentially dangerous, you're right. What's really scary is how many drivers are multi-tasking out there on the road. According to a recent survey from the industry group Network of Employers for Traffic Safety:

* 10 percent of drivers have done work-related tasks while driving, either by reviewing notes, talking on the phone or using a computer.

* 18 percent have applied makeup while driving.

* 32 percent of drivers admit to having read while driving.

* 39 percent have tended to children while driving.

* 51 percent say they use a cell phone while driving.

* 70 percent admit to eating while driving.

The lesson should be clear. Be careful out there, scan way ahead, and always be ready to take evasive action. Remember that you need to practice good habits when you are riding.

4 MENTAL & PHYSICAL TRAPS

TO WATCH OUT FOR ON THE ROAD...

THOUGHT PROVOKING TIPS FROM THE AMA

Dehydration. Long days on the bike----or even short ones on hot days---can dry you out much faster than you realize. Either use a hydration system or take frequent breaks to drink fluids.

The Stupids. If you find your mind getting a bit foggy--say, you can't decide whether to stop for a break or not--take it for the warning sign that it is and stop. Are you hungry? Thirsty? Tired? Figure out what's wrong and fix it before you get back on the bike.

Small Pains that Could Turn Into Big Ones. Sitting in one position for long periods of time can cause muscle soreness. Tightening up? Stretch your muscles (safely) on the bike, or better yet, stop and walk around. A few minutes off the bike can buy you an hour or more of comfort back on it.

That Voice. If that voice in your head is telling you to stop for the night, or that another 100 miles may be too much before lunch, or that you're riding too fast, or anything else, do yourself a favor and listen.