ILLINOIS STATE POLICE LAUNCH PROGRAM TO CUT MOTORCYCLE FATALITIES
In an effort to decrease motorcyclist accidents and fatalities, the Illinois State Police have launched a safety education campaign for the 2009 riding season.
The State Police have put together a list of safety tips for motorcyclists and motorists alike:
1. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET! Though Illinois law unfortunately does not require a motorcyclist to wear a helmet, they are encouraged to do so. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that up to 800 additional lives could be saved each year if motorcyclists wore helmets. As reported on my blog earlier this week, 80% of motorcyclists killed in 2007 were not wearing helmets.
2. DRIVE DEFENSIVELY! Never assume other vehicles on the road can see you; there is always a chance a car or truck can turn in front of the motorcycle and cause an accident. As such, the Illinois State Police, along with the Illinois Department of Transportation and motorcycle safety advocates, are urging the public to "Start Seeing Motorcycles" and to share the road with motorcycle riders.
3. DON'T DRINK & DRIVE! Out of the single-vehicle crashes in 2006, nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 41% of motorcycle operators who died had blood alcohol concentrations of .08 or higher. In Illinois, 44% of motorcylce operators killed during 2007 had been drinking prior to their accidents. Most fatal crashes are due to a failure of the motorcyclist to negotiate a curve because of alcohol-impaired balance and coordination.
4. GET LICENSED! Of all motorcyclists killed in 2007, more than one quarter were not licensed to operate their motorcycle.
5. KEEP UP WITH 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.
