New program aims to cut motorcycle fatalities

By: Karen Tableriou

Posted: 4/8/09

In an effort to decrease motorcyclist accidents and fatalities, the Illinois State Police launched a safety education campaign for the 2009 riding season.

Officers will target safety of motorcyclists and motorcycle license violations in a variety of ways. Some enforcement and safety strategies include motorcycle roadside safety checks and directed patrols.

Hanging on the District 14 building and on the fence of Chandler Park are signs with the slogan, "Start Seeing Motorcycles." While the campaign is specifically targeting motorcyclists, officers cannot ignore the role motorists play in the safety of motorcycle drivers.

With the weather changing from winter to spring and warmer days coming, the season of motorcycles is poised to start. In order to be safe, the state police have put together a list of safety tips for both motorcyclists and other motorists.

The most important thing a motorcyclist can do is wear a helmet and other equipment such as gloves and heavy boots. Though the law in Illinois does not require a motorcyclist to wear a helmet, they are encouraged to do so.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2006 there were 4,810 motorcyclists killed. The same year 1,658 motorcyclists were saved because of helmets. It is estimated that another 752 lives could have been saved if a helmet was worn. Additionally, the Illinois Department of Transportation reported that in 2007, 80 percent of motorcyclists killed in Illinois were not wearing helmets.

As motorists, driving defensively is a must. 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. Vice versa is also another possibility.

"By driving defensively, motorists and motorcyclists can help prevent tragic fatal crashes from occurring," said Captain Robert L. Elliott, Illinois State Police District 14 Commander.

In 2007, the IDOT reported motorcyclists accounted for 12 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities. In District 14, which covers Fulton, Hancock, Henderson, McDonough and Warren counties, only three fatal crashes involving motorcycles were reported in 2008, Elliott said.

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.