Spring Break
New program aims to cut motorcycle fatalities
Karen Tableriou
Issue date: 4/8/09 Section: News
Another cause of motorcycle accidents and fatalities is alcohol. Out of the single-vehicle crashes in 2006, nationally, the NHTSA reported that 41 percent of motorcycle operators who died had blood alcohol concentrations of .08 or higher.
The IDOT reported 44 percent of motorcycle operators killed during 2007 had been drinking prior to riding. Most of the reported fatal crashes are due to a failure of the motorcyclist to negotiate a curve because of alcohol-impaired balance and coordination.
The law is very strict on drinking and driving. This law also applies to motorcyclists.
Motorcyclists are also asked to be cautious when roads are wet. There are only two wheels on a motorcycle, which makes it more dangerous in unfavorable road conditions. In any weather, rain or sun, motorcyclists should obey all traffic laws, especially when it comes to speeding and proper lane usage.
Also, it's important to be properly licensed to operate a motorcycle. Part of the Illinois State Police's new campaign is to crack down on unlicensed motorcyclists. There are only two driver's license classifications available to ride a motorcycle. The Class "L" license is strictly for a motor-driven cycle with less than a 150cc engine. The Class "M" license is broader, encompassing a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle.
The IDOT stated of all the motorcyclists killed in 2007, only 74 percent were licensed to operate their motorcycle. The NHTSA said one out of four motorcycle operators killed in 2006, nationally, were operating their motorcycle with an invalid license.
Lastly, keep up with maintenance on your motorcycle. Similar to car maintenance, it is important to check the tires and change them if they are worn. Never operate a vehicle, motorcycle or car without making sure it is in good working condition.
With these tips, the Illinois State Police hope to decrease motorcycle fatalities and raise awareness for riding safely.
The IDOT reported 44 percent of motorcycle operators killed during 2007 had been drinking prior to riding. Most of the reported fatal crashes are due to a failure of the motorcyclist to negotiate a curve because of alcohol-impaired balance and coordination.
The law is very strict on drinking and driving. This law also applies to motorcyclists.
Motorcyclists are also asked to be cautious when roads are wet. There are only two wheels on a motorcycle, which makes it more dangerous in unfavorable road conditions. In any weather, rain or sun, motorcyclists should obey all traffic laws, especially when it comes to speeding and proper lane usage.
Also, it's important to be properly licensed to operate a motorcycle. Part of the Illinois State Police's new campaign is to crack down on unlicensed motorcyclists. There are only two driver's license classifications available to ride a motorcycle. The Class "L" license is strictly for a motor-driven cycle with less than a 150cc engine. The Class "M" license is broader, encompassing a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle.
The IDOT stated of all the motorcyclists killed in 2007, only 74 percent were licensed to operate their motorcycle. The NHTSA said one out of four motorcycle operators killed in 2006, nationally, were operating their motorcycle with an invalid license.
Lastly, keep up with maintenance on your motorcycle. Similar to car maintenance, it is important to check the tires and change them if they are worn. Never operate a vehicle, motorcycle or car without making sure it is in good working condition.
With these tips, the Illinois State Police hope to decrease motorcycle fatalities and raise awareness for riding safely.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
charles hill
posted 4/09/09 @ 11:46 AM CST
My son just recently totaled his Yamaha Road Star. He's all right. He broke his left arm in two places. He was lucky as hell to survive. It was the typical left turn by the motorist. (Continued…)
Post a Comment