ST. PAUL — Motorists are cautioned to look twice for motorcyclists as up to 30,000 riders will take to the roads along the Mississippi and St. Croix River valleys from the Twin Cities to Winona this weekend during the annual “Fall Flood Run” motorcycle event.
To ensure a safe riding environment, numerous law enforcement agencies in southeast Minnesota, including the State Patrol, local police and county sheriff’s offices will conduct extra enforcement, especially alert to speeding and possible DWIs. Wisconsin law enforcement also will be stepped along its side of the border.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), motorcycling popularity is at an all-time high in Minnesota with nearly a quarter-million registered bikes. Of the state’s 2010 traffic fatalities, 11 percent were motorcycle riders. Of those motorcyclists killed, 71 percent were age 40 or older, and 93 percent were male. To-date, 31 riders and passengers have died on Minnesota roadways in 2011, compared to 28 at this time last year.
“Riders must shoulder the responsibility for protecting themselves. Be prepared for inattentive drivers by riding sober, keeping your speed in check, and make yourself visible to drivers,” says Bill Shaffer, motorcycle safety program coordinator for DPS.
DPS safety tips for motorists and motorcyclists include:
• Drive at safe speeds and stay focused on driving—speeding and inattention are the two most-cited contributing factors in motorcycle crashes.
• Look twice for riders—motorists should take a second look for motorcycle riders before entering or crossing a roadway. Most vehicle/motorcycle crashes occur in intersections.
• Wear the gear—motorcyclists should wear brightly colored protective gear and a helmet for visibility and protection.
• Don’t drink and ride—one-third of all motorcycle fatalities involve impaired riders.
• Share the road—motorists and motorcyclists should keep a safe distance from all vehicles, especially other motorcyclists.
