According to statistics from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 11,400 people were injured in motorcycle accidents from 2008 to 2010 in Ohio. An additional 542 people were killed in Ohio motorcycle accidents during that same period of time.

All too often, a motorcycle accident occurs because a driver violated a motorcyclist's right of way. Many drivers will later say that they never saw the motorcyclist coming. Experienced motorcycle accident attorneys hear that excuse often, but failing to see a motorcycle does not excuse a driver from liability for damages caused by his or her own negligence.

Over the winter, many drivers fall out of the habit of keeping a watchful eye for motorcyclists. With warmer weather returning to Cincinnati, motorcyclists are returning to the roads in large numbers. With May being Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, Ohio law enforcement authorities are taking the opportunity to remind drivers to look for motorcycles on area roads.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is offering several safety tips that will help motorists share the road with motorcycles.

Always look for motorcycles on the highway, when a motorcyclist may be changing lanes, at intersections, and when motorcyclists may be making turns.

Motorcycles are motor vehicles with the same rights and privileges as all other motor vehicles on the road.

Do not get too close to a motorcyclist and give motorcycles a full lane of travel.

Do not follow a motorcycle too closely and always allow plenty of space in between your vehicle and all vehicles in front of you.

Source: WANE.com, "OH police remind of motorcycle safety," 4/29/2011