On average, three motorcyclists are killed every day at intersections in the United States, and crash data reveals that motorcycle accidents happen more often in intersections than elsewhere, relative to the amount of time riders spend in them.
That's why, two years ago, Allstate created Once is Never Enough (ONE). Designed to increase awareness of multi-vehicle accidents at intersections, the program offered simple advice to drivers and riders — look twice, because once is never enough.
In 2009, when introducing ONE, Allstate and custom motorcycle builder Dave Perewitz visited major motorcycle rallies across the country, encouraging locals and visitors alike to look out for motorcycles. “When you’re on the road, you have to be aware that motorcycles are out there," said Perewitz. "I've seen too many riders get hurt because someone didn’t look twice at an intersection.”
In 2010, Allstate took ONE directly to the source of the problem — the actual intersections. After dangerous intersections in popular motorcycle rally cities were identified, ONE's now-familiar "LOOK" signs were installed. These yellow, diamond-shaped traffic signs feature a motorcycle silhouette and are inscribed with the word “LOOK” to encourage motorists to look for motorcycles before crossing an intersection.
This year, the ONE program continues to grow, as Allstate brings LOOK signs to dangerous intersections in 25 major metropolitan areas in hopes of raising awareness, reducing accident rates and saving lives. “In the time it takes to blink an eye, a life could be saved,” said Keith Rutman, vice president of Allstate’s consumer household unit. “Taking that one extra second at an intersection to look left and right — then left again — for motorcyclists can help make our roads safer.”
"LOOK" for ONE program signs in these cities:
• Albany, NY • Atlanta, GA • Charlotte, NC • Chicago, IL • Cincinnati, OH • Columbus, OH
• Dallas, TX • Denver, CO • Houston, TX • Indianapolis, IN • Las Vegas, NV
• Los Angeles, CA • Miami, FL • Nashville, TN • Orlando, FL • Philadelphia, PA
• Phoenix, AZ • Sacramento, CA • San Diego, CA • San Francisco, CA
• Salt Lake City, UT • Seattle, WA • St. Louis, MO • Tampa, FL • Washington, D.C.
Allstate encourages both drivers and riders to be conscious that they share the road with each other. With that in mind, here are some important tips to consider every time you hit the road:
Tips for Motorists
- Look left, right – and left again – for motorcyclists. Also, be aware that because of a motorcycle’s small size, a bike can easily hide in a car’s blind spot.
- Be cautious when going through intersections. Almost one-third of motorcycle accidents happen here.
- Allow for greater following distance. Did you know most motorcyclists do not activate their brake light when slowing down? They slow down by downshifting.
- Don’t assume motorcyclists are speeding. Due to their small size, motorcycles may seem to be moving faster and appear farther away than they really are.
- Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane. This helps them be seen more easily by motorists. They also tend to avoid the center of the lane because of liquids that leak from car engines, transmissions and radiators.
Tips for Motorcyclists
- Be cautious when going through intersections. Almost one-third of motorcycle crashes happen here.
- Be visible when you ride. Avoid blind spots, wear bright-colored, protective clothing, activate turn signals early and always use your headlights.
- Flash your brake lights when slowing down. This helps others on the road know your intentions.
- Remember to give yourself space between you and the car in front of you. You’ll have more time to react to other motorists’ actions.
- Ride within your limits. If you’re a new rider, consider taking a training course. Rush hour is not the time to learn how to maneuver your motorcycle. All riders should avoid extreme temperatures and inclement weather.
For more information regarding motorcycle safety and awareness, visit Allstate.com.
Allstate Insurance Company does not own and is not affiliated with Dave Perewitz. Allstate makes no warranties or representations and is not liable for any goods or services provided by this individual.