With scores of upcoming motorcycle rallies throughout the U.S., you can expect to see more motorcyclists out on the open road. Their safety—and yours—should always be a top priority.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 34,000 motorcyclists perished in fatal accidents while approximately 1,222,000 people were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for non-fatal motorcycle-related injuries between 2001 and 2008. BikeBandit motorcycle parts may make a biker safer, but if you’re not watching where you’re going, the biker could end up seriously injured or worse.

Stay alert and keep bikers safe as you enjoy the roads this summer.

Look for Traffic

Whether you're making a left-hand turn or changing lanes, be aware of the traffic around you, as well as oncoming traffic. Before you make a left turn, make sure traffic is clear. Then take another look for motorcycles.

Check Your Blind Spots

Every car has a blind spot and it only takes a matter of seconds for a motorcycle to pop out from one. Keep your side mirrors adjusted outward, past the flanks of your own car.

Keep an Eye on the Lane Lines

The state of California allows riders to ride along the white dashed lane lines whenever traffic conditions permit. This usually occurs during times of slow-moving congestion when other vehicles are either stopped or traveling at speeds below 30 mph, according to the California Highway Patrol. Look out for motorcyclists who engage in lane splitting and never intentionally block or impede a rider who is doing so.

Keep Your Radio Down and Your Ears Open

Many motorcyclists believe that “loud pipes save lives,” but it's difficult for drivers to hear motorcycles from within the confines of their sound-deadened cabins, especially if loud music is playing. Keep your radio at a level where you can also hear motorcyclists and other passing vehicles on the road.

Increase Your Following Distance

The closer you follow any vehicle, the less reaction time you'll have to stop quickly and safely. Motorcycles have a much shorter stopping distance, which makes the possibility of a rear end collision much more likely. Even a minor rear end collision can leave riders with serious injuries.

Leave motorcyclists as much space as possible. Leaving a generous buffer zone allows them to stop more easily, swerve around potholes, oil slicks and other dangerous obstacles and obstructions commonly found on the roads.

Expect the Unexpected

You can't predict what happens on the open road, nor can you accurately predict any driver or rider’s behavior. Tire blowouts, spills and any number of other accidents can easily occur in the blink of an eye. Stay safe and pay close attention to your surroundings as you drive.