Have any road trips planned in the remaining summer days? If you do, then think twice about which state you are going to because the words out on the nation’s worst states to drive through. You might think about driving around them after reading this article.

Want to stand outside the White House and picket, or see that tiny guy up close that sits inside the penny? Well, according to a GMAC insurance report conducted in 2011, the place where people are most likely to not know the written rules of the road is in the District of Columbia. Only 70% of those polled would likely pass the written vehicle-licensing exam.

Brandon Kuzminski was riding his 2009 yellow Honda motorcycle south down Romeo Plank Road in Macomb. Just before 10am, as he was crossing an intersection, he crashed head-on with a 2000 Dodge Ram van that was driven by a 36-year old man from Harrison Township.

The van made a left turn, and allegedly failed to yield to the motorcycle’s right of way.

Kuzminski was wearing his helmet and not under the influence of either drugs or alcohol.

Before you ride

Before you strap on your new leather chaps and hit the road, then you should sit and thoroughly read your owner’s manual. Check your gas, tire, and oil levels. Ensure that you’ve complied with all the necessary state requirements and have the requisite license to ride. Unless you understand bike mechanics, then let a licensed professional work on your bike. Your signals, horn, and lights should all function properly. Although simple, these reminders significantly reduce the likelihood of an injury.