Most people will quote these words to me as I walk towards my scooter.  Coming from another rider, it’s a friendly thing to say-there’s camaraderie in it, but coming from a car driver it can be frustrating.  I understand what they are saying-they want me to stay whole and hale.  But I wonder if their behavior has changed in response to having a friend ride.

Let me say I am safe.  I began my love affair with riding by taking a motorcycle safety course.  I am hyper vigilant.  I am always aware of my relation to cars on the road.  I never text, talk on the phone, talk to passengers, look at a map, read a magazine, put on makeup, or eat while driving.  I never even listed to music.  I only drive.  I maintain my scooter with regular services and replace the tires when they require.  I know that my safety depends on my level of attention.  Most motorcycle accidents considered the fault of the cyclist involve substance abuse.  I never drink and ride.

Which leads me to say…if a motorcyclist is involved in an accident, it is most often due to the inattention of other drivers.  I ask you: are you safe?  Do you consider the lives of others on the road as you enter your vehicle?  When you tell me to be safe out there, I hope that you are safe.  Because my life is in the hands of others.

*update* My friend Monica took this shot