With the promise of warmer weather and increased motorcycle presence on Pennsylvania roadways, Governor Tom Corbett has signed a proclamation designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch says motorcycle safety is the responsibility of both riders and drivers.
"By riding within the limits of their ability and by wearing the proper safety gear, motorcyclists can do a lot to protect themselves," Schoch said. "But motor vehicle drivers also have a responsibility to keep an eye out for motorcycles and do what they can to share the road and keep riders safe."
Although motorcycle use is on the rise – the number of registered motorcycles climbed by more than 5,600 and licensed motorcyclists grew by 8,500 last year – crashes and fatalities were down from 2010. There were more than 3,600 crashes involving motorcycles on Pennsylvania roadways in 2011, resulting in 199 fatalities versus more than 4,000 crashes and 223 fatalities in 2010.
As part of its continuing and aggressive effort to reduce motorcycle crashes and fatalities, PennDOT created the Live Free Ride Alive website. The interactive website, designed specifically for riders, challenges motorcyclists to take personal responsibility for their own safety.
To learn more about riding safely, to see videos and to share your riding experiences visit www.LiveFreeRideAlive.com.
