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BOSTON (WBZNewsRadio) - Ahead of National Motorcycle Safety Awareness month in May, The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is encouraging drivers to look twice for motorcycles on the roads.
As the weather gets warmer and summer approaches, Massachusetts roads will once again see more motorcycles. With the influx of drivers on the road, MassDOT said it's important to remember roadway safety is a shared responsibility. The agency is encouraging vehicle drivers to keep an eye out and for motorcyclists to wear visible clothing, be cautious while on the bike, and obey the rules of the road.
"Tragically, on average, about four motorcyclists were killed each month last year in crashes on Massachusetts roads," said Transportation Secretary and CEO Gina Fiandaca. "Crashes are preventable. It is imperative that vehicle drivers pay attention to the road ahead and be cautious when pulling out of side streets and when making turns. It is essential that motorcyclists obey traffic laws, stay in marked lanes, and use turn signals. Lives can be saved if all drivers travel at or below the speed limit, drive sober, and drive hands-free. Life is precious and all of us at MassDOT want travelers to make it to their destinations safely."
In 2022, Massachusetts saw 42 roadway fatalities involving motorcycles. Nationwide, preliminary data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration appears to highlight a none percent increase in fatalities involving motorcycles between 2020 and 2021.
In an effort to reduce the numbers of accidents and fatalities involving motorcycles on the road, the RMV sponsors the Massachusetts Rider Education Program (MREP), which aims to educate both riders and drivers to reduce the number of these incidents.
“The RMV underscores the importance of motorcycle safety, and the critical need for motorcyclists to be properly educated, trained and licensed to be able to safely and cautiously operate motorcycles, and navigate all types of roadway conditions in various weather conditions,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie. “Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating and fun but can also be dangerous as there is a higher risk for severe injury or fatality, so we encourage motorcyclists to be prepared, wear appropriate safety gear and helmets and always try to be bright and visible.”
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