Troopers Urging Motorcyclists to Drive Safely this Summer

 

RALEIGH — Motorcycle fatalities investigated by the Highway Patrol have increased 11 percent this year. Troopers are reminding all motorists about the importance of motorcycle safety and sharing the road. Spring and summer months are popular times for motorcyclists on North Carolina's highways.

Forty-seven motorcyclists have been killed in traffic collisions since January 1st, as compared to 42 motorcyclists killed during the same time period last year. Ninety-three motorcyclists died last year in traffic collisions.

“There are more motorcycles being operated on our highways than ever before,” said Bryan E. Beatty, Secretary of the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety. “Motorcyclists must obey the helmet and traffic laws to ensure their safety while traveling on the highways.”

According to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, North Carolina has more than 187,000 registered motorcycles and 341,594 licensed drivers have a motorcycle endorsement on their license.

“Licensed drivers with a motorcycle endorsement have increased 15 percent since last year. Motorcyclists must make themselves visible while operating on the highway and motorists should be mindful to share the road with motorcyclists,” said Colonel W. Fletcher Clay, Commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

The following tips will help motorcyclists and motorists travel more safely:

• Always wear a helmet. It is the law in North Carolina. A motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury than a helmeted rider.
• Always have the motorcycle headlight on. Motorcyclists are required to have their headlight on.
• Be visible at all times. This includes wearing bright or reflective clothing.
• Share the road. Motorcyclists have the right to a full lane.
• Stay alert. Be aware that motorcycles can be hidden within a car's blind spot; take an extra moment to thoroughly check traffic when changing lanes.
• Keep a safe distance. Do not tailgate. Allow more following distance behind motorcycles.
• Be cautious. Be aware that turn signals on a motorcycle do not turn off automatically, and some riders may forget to turn them off after a turn or lane change.

For additional information regarding motorcycle safety, telephone Sergeant Mark Brown at 919-662-4430.