With warmer weather just around the corner, state officials are raising awareness around motorcycle safety.
Memorial Day is the unofficial start of the summer road travel season, and the Governor’s Highway Safety Program is emphasizing that “Motorcycle Safety is Everyone’s Safety”.
Unfortunately, data shows that motorcyclists are overrepresented in traffic crashes and fatalities.
In 2020, 38 motorcyclists were killed in crashes on West Virginia roads, accounting for 14 percent of all statewide traffic fatalities that year.
Safe driving and riding practices from all road users — drivers and riders alike — help reduce the number of crashes, fatalities, and injuries on our highways.
Drivers and riders alike are encouraged to drive and ride alcohol- and drug-free and to obey the speed limit.
According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol impairment was a factor in 41 percent of fatal motorcycle collisions in 2020, while excessive speed was a factor in 34 percent.
Drivers are encouraged to allow more follow distance when behind a motorcycle, while riders are reminded to wear protective gear. NHTSA estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017.
For more information about the West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program, visit highwaysafety.wv.gov or call 304-926-2509.