Motorcycling popularity is at an all-time high in Minnesota with nearly a quarter-million registered bikers. Unfortunately, motorcycle fatalities and injuries are also on the rise.
So far this year there have been 182 traffic fatalities in Minnesota; slightly less than 16 percent of those were motorcycle riders. Preliminary reports show that in 2014, 46 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in Minnesota. Wright County had 16 crash fatalities in 2014, and four of them (25 percent) were motorcycle crashes. Safety advocates are asking motorcyclists to take safety into their own hands and motorists to look twice for motorcycles.
The contributing factor most often listed by officers regarding crash-involved motorcycle drivers is "illegal-unsafe speed." More than half of all motorcycle-involved crashes are "single-vehicle" crashes. That is, no other motor vehicle is involved, just the motorcycle. The contributing factor most often listed for the other drivers (in vehicles) is "failure to yield right of way." Data also shows us that drinking and riding is a big problem – each year, about one-third of riders killed had been drinking alcohol.
The good news for those who ride is that these types of crashes are all preventable. With more riders on the road than ever, drivers need to be on alert. Look twice for riders. Expect to see motorcycles when entering or crossing roadways. Most motorcycle-vehicle crashes occur when vehicles are turning or in intersections. Riders, on the other hand, should assume they are invisible and keep a safe distance from all vehicles. Wearing "high-visibility" protective gear and a helmet can increase visibility and protection.
All drivers and riders can increase safety behind the wheel by concentrating on driving, driving the posted speed, driving sober and wearing seat belts or helmets.