Last Updated: Tuesday, August 7, 2007 2:00 PM CDT
State warns motorcycle fatalities rising
by Heather Schaefer - Daily News Staff - hschaefer@rhinelanderdailynews.com
More than 40,000 bikers expected in the Northwoods for Fall Ride
Just a few short weeks before some 40,000 bikers will descend on the Northwoods for the 26th annual Tomahawk Fall Ride for MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association), the Wisconsin State Patrol is reporting the number of motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes this year is on a pace to exceed last year's total of 93 deaths.
"There have been far too many needless deaths and injuries in motorcycle crashes this year," says Ron Thompson, manager of the Wisconsin Motorcycle Safety Program.
"To keep from becoming a grim statistic, motorcyclists should take every conceivable precaution to protect themselves whether they're cruising down the open road or maneuvering in heavy traffic,” Thompson added.
Thompson and other motorcycle safety advocates continually stress the importance of staying sober while riding, wearing protective gear-especially a helmet, and obtaining proper training and licensing before starting to ride.
"Motorcyclists also must remember that they're nearly invisible to other motorists on the road," Thompson says. "To be more conspicuous to other drivers, motorcyclists should wear brightly colored and reflective protective clothing and gear. Wearing a white helmet, for instance, makes motorcyclists more visible. A modulating headlight on a motorcycle is a good way to make the bike and rider more noticeable to other motorists. Motorcyclists also should keep their headlights on high-beam during daylight hours to be even more conspicuous."
In addition, motorcyclists should practice the following safe-riding recommendations:
- Slow down and take extra precautions in deer-crossing areas, especially at dawn and dusk when deer are most active.
- Slow down before a curve and slightly roll on during the curve to stabilize the motorcycle's suspension.
- Maintain a 3 to 4 second following distance. And when riding with others, use staggered riding positions.
- Check traffic in all directions at all intersections and look forward for left-turning vehicles as well as left and right for cross traffic.
- Check mirrors before changing lanes.
- Use both brakes to slow or stop-the front brake has 70 percent of the total stopping power.
- Don't ride aggressively or go beyond your riding ability limits.
- Avoid riding when you're tired or drowsy.
- Maintain a good attitude by eliminating stress and anger before riding.
Throughout the nation, motorcycles continue to grow in popularity both for recreation and basic transportation, which has led to a corresponding increase in motorcycle crashes. More than 450,000 Wisconsin residents have motorcycle licenses or permits, and nearly 300,000 motorcycles are registered in the state.
Thompson says, "Even with an increase in motorcycles on Wisconsin roads, we can reduce the number of fatalities and injuries if motorcyclists ride as safely as possible and other motorists watch for them and share the road.
Other motorists should always look twice at approaching motorcycles. Often, it's hard for motorists to judge the distance and closing speed of approaching motorcycles because of their smaller size."
The fall ride is scheduled for Sept. 12-16. Events are held around Tomahawk and in the Oneida County town of Nokomis.
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A biker is seen riding in downtown Tomahawk during the Fall Ride.
(Daily News File Photo)
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