CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – (CLARKSVILLENOW) The Clarksville Police Department is encouraging motorists to use caution when driving due to recent traffic statistics for the city. There have been eight traffic fatalities in the city this year and four of those involved motorcycles.

“Motorcycle riders and drivers of vehicles have to work together to reduce crashes,” Clarksville Police Department spokesman Jim Knoll said. “There are actions both can take to improve safety on the roadways.”

The following are suggestions for both drivers and motorcyclists provided by Clarksville Police:

1. Drivers should look for motorcycles. They are smaller, more difficult to see, and often blend into the background. Fr motorcycles, it is tougher to estimate speeds, and their distance may be deceiving and look farther away than they actually are. Pay extra attention at intersections before making a left turn. Due to their size, it is easy for motorcycles to be in a blind spot so check blind spots frequently, especially before changing lanes. Use your turn signal so riders and other drivers know your intention.

2. Allow plenty of space when you are driving because motorcyclists are more susceptible to changes in weather and road conditions which may require them to react and maneuver differently. The driver has to allow themselves enough time to adjust and provide enough room for the motorcyclist to maneuver. Even though stopping distances are similar for cars and motorcycles, inclement weather makes stopping more difficult and additional following distance may be required.

3. Remember there are differences in cars and motorcycles. For example, a motorcycle may slow down by downshifting so you may not see a brake light. Motorcycle turn signals don’t always cancel after a turn is made, so be aware a signal may not truly indicate a motorcycle is turning, and a motorcyclist may often adjust lanes to be more visible, avoid road hazards, wind, or passing.

4. Motorcycles have the same privileges as any other vehicle on the roadway so respect them and allow them their full lane of travel.

5. As for motorcyclists, you should wear clothing which improves your visibility in traffic and provides some level of protection in a crash. Use bright colors, and reflective strips or decals whether it’s day or night. Always wear eye protection and D.O.T approved helmets.

6. If you are riding a motorcycle, use lane positioning to be seen and try to stay out of a driver’s blind spots. Ride with your headlight on day or night and always think about safety. Give yourself time to react to other motorist’s actions. Leave plenty of space for emergency braking or to avoid a crash. Pretend you are invisible, drive defensively, and make lane changes gradually. Pay attention, watch, and anticipate vehicles turning.

7. Motorcyclists should also make drivers aware of what they are going to do while riding by signaling before making lane changes and in advance of their next action. They can flash their brake lights when slowing down or stopping and give drivers notice of intentions.

8. Finally, be courteous and respect others, use common sense, be ready for the unexpected, and above all: don’t be aggressive.