It's that time of year again when half-a-million motorcycle riders and enthusiasts descend on Daytona Beach for Bike Week.

Bike Week 2015 began Friday and continues through March 15. 

The Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau expects 500,000 visitors over the next ten days.
           
To try and save lives, the Florida Highway Patrol is urging motorcyclists and drivers alike to use extra caution on the roads.

FHP said troopers and other law enforcement agencies will be out in force to make sure that Bike Week 2015 is safe for everyone.          

One tip for drivers, look twice before turning left to make sure you're not turning into the path of a biker.

AAA encourages all motorists to be cautious on the road and use these safety tips:

Safety Tips for Motorists:

  • 1. Respect motorcycle riders: Motorcycles are vehicles too and have the same privileges as an automobile, so be sure to give them ample room.
     
  • 2. Listen: Even if a motorcycle is loud, don’t expect to hear it. Actively look for motorcycles in traffic.
     
  • 3. Leave Room: Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the motorcyclists. Uneven terrain, wet roads, and heavy traffic often require a motorcycle rider to react and maneuver differently than automobiles.
     
  • 4. Be aware: Take extra caution when making a left-hand turn, because most automobile-versus-motorcycle crashes occur during left-hand turns.
     
  • 5. Don't drive distracted: A driver who takes their eyes off the road for two seconds doubles their risk of getting into a crash.

Safety Tips for Motorcyclists:

  • 6. Wear safety gear: Helmets that meet a high protection standard, eye wear, closed-toe footwear and protective clothing reduce your risk of injury or death in a crash. Remember, the only thing between you and the ground is your protective gear.
     
  • 7. Be visible: Keep headlights and marker and taillights on at dusk and dark or rainy weather. Wear bright clothing or put reflective strips on your bike to be more visible to other motorists. Avoid being in the blind spots of cars and trucks by following three to four seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.
     
  • 8. Use sound judgment: Avoid weaving between lanes while riding. Be sure to use your signals and stick to the speed limit.
     
  • 9. Get proper training: Completing a motorcycle safety course can not only make you a better rider, but save you money on your motorcycle insurance.