DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Bike Week returned to Daytona Beach on Friday, bringing thousands of bikers from across the country.
[WEATHER: Get your 2015 Bike Week forecast]
About 500,000 bikers are expected at the event, which will bring the region an estimated $75 million.
"You get to see a lot of bikes and a lot of artwork. It's just unbelievable," said Angelo Carretta, from Ontario, Canada.
"Where else can you have bands blaring, music out, the bikes up and down and everyone happy. It's a wonderful place," said David Whitburn, from United Kingdom.
Several shops along Main Street said they hope sales are higher this year, some focusing on the cooler weather.
"People come in with T-shirts, we put the sweaters by the front door. It'll do us some good hopefully," said Elia Nader, of Americas Bikers.
The Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau also said other venues will benefit from the rainy weather.
"On a day like today with a little wind, it helps our T-shirt vendors, our restaurants, bars so if they're not riding they're partaking in some other type of activity," said Shawn Abbatesa.
The Visitors Bureau said it now has maps to pick up of the best areas where folks can ride.
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Meanwhile, authorities are urging motorists to drive safely, with the Daytona Beach Fire Department launching a "Look Twice. Save a Life," campaign through March 15.
Firefighters provided the following safety tips to drivers:
- Double-check traffic at intersections before you turn or pull out.
- Always check your blind spots before changing lanes.
- Treat motorcyclists with the same respect you give to other motorists.
- Leave at least a 4-second distance between your car and a motorcycle in front of you. Note when a motorcycle passes a point in the road. If your vehicle passes the same point in less than four seconds, you're following too closely.
- When passing a motorcycle, give a full lane to the motorcycle. Do not share lanes.
- Keep a watchful eye at all times. Individual motorcycles may blend into a larger group and may be closer than you think.
- Stay focused on your driving. Avoid distractions such as talking on your cellphone, texting, eating or changing radio stations.
- Remember that failing to yield right-of-way can result in the death of a motorcyclist.