Distress Bandanna

03/10/2026

Today our teen drivers took part in a powerful “Teens & Trucks” safety demonstration. Roady and Mike from Lincoln Land ABATE, both experienced truck drivers, talked with students about how easily large vehicles can hide cars and motorcycles from view — and why staying out of a truck’s blind spots is so important.

They also explored each of the major no‑zones, where accidents happen most often, and discussed the dangers of wide right turns, the “squeeze play,” and the importance of giving trucks plenty of space on all sides. When car drivers see motorcycles and semi‑trucks sharing the road, they should prioritize creating space and increasing vigilance. Because motorcycles are small, highly maneuverable, and affected by wind turbulence from trucks — and because semis have massive blind spots — drivers play a key role in acting as a buffer to help prevent accidents.

A big thank‑you to Roady and Mike for sharing their expertise and helping our teens become more confident, responsible drivers.

🚛 Give trucks room. Stay out of blind spots. Safety starts with awareness.

03/07/2026

⚡ Teaching Safety, Saving Lives: Downed Power Line Vehicle Safety at Metamora Township High School

Today Ameren Illinois had the opportunity to present to three classes about the critical topic of downed power line vehicle safety. A huge thank‑you to Neal Bowling, Line Journeyman and Ruthie Bertram, Community Relations Coordinator with Ameren Illinois, for bringing their expertise, energy, and real‑world experience to our students.

Neal and Ruthie walked students through what to do if a vehicle ever comes into contact with a downed power line — a situation where staying calm and knowing the right steps can make all the difference.

One of the highlights of the day was watching students practice how to safely exit a vehicle in simulated downed‑line scenarios. They were fully engaged, asked great questions, and had fun while learning something truly important.

We’re grateful for partnerships that help empower our students with knowledge they can carry for life.

⚡ Stay aware. Stay safe. Knowledge is power.

03/05/2026

Distracted driving doesn’t just put you at risk — it puts every driver, passenger, and stranded motorist around you in danger. A split second of looking at a phone, adjusting the radio, or reaching for something can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.

Stranded motorists are especially vulnerable. When someone is pulled over with a flat tire, mechanical issue, or emergency, they’re counting on the rest of us to be alert and give them space. Slowing down, moving over, and staying focused can literally save a life.

02/28/2026

A split second can save a life. Train Your Brain®. Look, Listen, & See Motorcycles! Lincoln Land ABATE

02/25/2026

Distress Bandanna giving a teen driver safety presentation today. MOVE OVER LAW

02/23/2026

Last week, Distress Bandanna® traveled to Washington, D.C. for a series of productive meetings focused on improving national crash‑reporting standards. We shared an issue that affects every stranded motorist and motorcyclist on America’s roads: under current federal definitions, anyone standing outside their disabled vehicle who is struck, injured, or killed is classified as a pedestrian, with no connection to their vehicle. This misclassification hides the true scope of roadside crashes and makes it harder to develop effective safety strategies.

We discussed a simple, common‑sense solution — creating a clear sub‑classification for stranded motorists and motorcyclists and adding a dedicated data element to national crash‑reporting standards. Accurate data leads to better prevention, stronger public awareness, and improved protection for riders, stranded motorists, and first responders.

We’re grateful for the support and momentum building behind this effort. Onward — and thank you to everyone who continues to stand with us in improving roadside safety for all.

02/10/2026

Vans or trucks can obstruct motorcyclists from a driver's view, making them seem to appear suddenly. We had a truck driver join us to discuss no-zones and blind spots, highlighting the importance of staying visible to truck drivers. The student in the picture is wearing Jake's jacket, which was featured in the video. Lincoln Land ABATE

02/10/2026

Yesterday Lincoln Land ABATE delivered four Motorcycle Awareness presentations in Driver Education classes, covering the key risks and safe‑driving habits every new driver needs to know: left‑turn collisions, size and speed misjudgment, hazardous road conditions, blind‑spot “vanishing acts,” proper following distance, what to do when a motorcycle passes you, how to safely pass a motorcycle, and why the third look can save a life.
Building this awareness early helps protect everyone on the road.

01/23/2026

01/22/2026

2nd day - Stay alert and share the road responsibly. Watch for motorcycles and give all riders the space and attention they need.

01/21/2026

Stay focused behind the wheel. Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the road at all times.