(HealthDay News) — More than 5,000 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in 2017 alone, says the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

To stay safer on the road, the agency encourages motorcyclists to:

  • Practice operating your motorcycle before taking it into traffic.
  • Check your motorcycle’s tire pressure, tread depth, breaks, lights and fluid levels before riding.
  • Wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards and proper body protection.
  • Obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits and lane markings.
  • Stay alcohol- and drug -ree.
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