Idaho

Transportation Department

4/30/2010






Motorcycle awareness month draws attention to safety

BOISE - The Idaho Transportation Department is partnering with Idaho motorcycle safety advocates to encourage drivers to "Look Twice for Motorcyclists."

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The transportation department is partnering with Idaho STAR and Idaho Coalition for Motorcycle Safety to encourage drivers to be extra alert and cautious when driving to help keep motorcycle riders safe.

Because of their smaller size, motorcycles or scooters are not easily seen and can be hidden in a vehicle's blind spot.

"It's crucial that motorists always look for these riders by checking mirrors and blind spots and looking twice before turning or crossing a lane of traffic," said Cecilia Arritola, ITD motorcycle safety coordinator. "Too often a driver will say, 'I just didn't see him.'"

Motorcycle and scooter riders of all ages can benefit from proper instruction like the STAR motorcycle rider-training program, Arritola said.

"Motorcycle riders have responsibilities, starting with following the rules of the road," she explained. "They need to be alert to other motor vehicle drivers and always wear a helmet and protective gear."

 Idaho law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers under the age of 18 to wear helmets.

 Arritola offered additional tips to help keep motorcyclists safe on Idaho highways.

 -  Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.

-  Don't tailgate. Allow more distance when following a motorcycle. Remember that in dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.

-  Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle. Motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling, and riders sometimes forget to turn them off.

- Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances to other vehicles pose major hazards to motorcyclists.

Thirty-four motorcycle fatalities occurred in Idaho last year -- an increase from 29 in 2008. For Idaho, the economic cost of crashes involving motorcyclists was $285 million in 2009.

The top five contributing circumstances for motorcycle crashes are: failing to yield, inattention, improper turn, following too closely, and alcohol/drug impairment.

 "All motorcyclists and roadway users are encouraged to make responsible driving choices," said Arritola.

For more information about motorcycle safety or other ITD Toward Zero Deaths highway safety initiatives, please contact the ITD Highway Safety Office at 208-334-8100.