Missouri - Campaign aims to increase motorcycle safety awareness for all road users.

It's springtime in Missouri and everyone wants to be outdoors, and motorcyclists everywhere are eager to hit the road. Riders will be polishing that chrome and tuning those engines for weekend rides, rallies and runs.

The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety wants to remind motorists and motorcyclists alike to "Watch for Motorcycles" in order to help prevent motorcycle crashes, deaths and injuries on Missouri's roadways.

"Motorcyclists have the same rights and privileges as any other drivers on the roadway," said Bill Whitfield, executive committee chair of the coalition. "However, drivers of cars and trucks often don't see motorcycles until the last second, or sometimes not at all."

In 2014, 87 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes on Missouri roadways. By following a few basic safety rules, we can all help prevent crashes.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers the following tips to drivers on how to prevent a fatal crash with a motorcycle:

Allow the motorcycle the full width of a lane at all times.

Always signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic.

Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections.

Never drive distracted or impaired.

Read more, including precautions motorcyclists can take to remain safe on the road - Motorcycle Awareness.