The Washington State Patrol chief and DOL director Liz Luce announced a major motorcycle safety outreach campaign for this summer, geared to reduce motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities.
Last year, 67 motorcyclists died on Washington roads, a slight increase from 2009.
“We have some riders who are impaired by drugs or alcohol, inexperienced riders out there without a motorcycle endorsement and some motorists who, frankly, need to pay more attention to the road,” Luce said. “We’re focused on reducing these three major problems.”
“It happens every year,” said WSP Chief John Batiste. “The good weather arrives and so do these needless tragedies. We’re going to try and get ahead of the game with very strict enforcement.”
DOL’s “Look Twice, Save a Life” campaign will reach millions of drivers across the state and about 24,000 unendorsed motorcycle owners. Gov. Gregoire also issued a proclamation declaring May as Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month.
Riders can be difficult to see on busy roads because of their smaller size and profile. Motorists should take an extra second to be aware of what’s around them. An extra look could save a life.
The top three rider-causes of motorcycle crashes are:
- Alcohol or drug impairment
- Improper lane position
- Speeding
To legally operate a motorcycle on Washington roads, riders must have a driver license endorsement—or they could see their bike impounded even after a simple traffic stop.
Motorcycle training and endorsement info on the web: www.EndorseYourSport.com
