While motorcycles are about as likely as cars to be involved in crashes, motorcyclists are almost three times more likely to be injured and five times more likely to be killed in a crash, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

With a higher likelihood of crashes happening in rural areas, we urge motorcyclists and other motorists alike to take extra safety precautions this time of year.

We urge motorcyclists to do the following:

• Wear protective gear, including a Department of Transportation-approved helmet and brightly colored protective gear for visibility and protection. Gear should protect from wind chill, flying bugs and debris and road rash.

• Be prepared for inattentive drivers. Stay focused on riding and keep speed in check.

• Never drink and drive.

• Always ride within your skillset and use good judgment.

• Maintain a three-second following distance.

• When encountering an animal, slow down and use both brakes to stop.

Motorists are encouraged to do the following:

• Look twice for motorcycles before entering a roadway or changing lanes. People should expect to see motorcycles at any time and should search aggressively for them.

• Give riders room and check for blind spots.