Photo: WBZ NewsRadio
WESTWOOD, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — As the summer is almost upon us, AAA Northeast reminds drivers of the increasing rates of fatalities involving motorcyclists.
The summer months are notorious for an increase in motorcyclist fatalities on the roadways. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study indicated that there were 6,218 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2022. Data also revealed that nearly 50 percent of fatal crashes involving motorcycles occurred in June, July, August and September.
The Massachusetts IMPACT Crash Data Portal indicated that there were 62 motorcyclist fatalities across the state in 2023. 17 motorcyclists have been killed in crashes this year.
AAA Northeast outlined the following safety tips for drivers to avoid collisions with cyclists on the roadways:
1.) Increase following distance and take extra care when driving behind a motorcyclist, especially when stopping or accelerating.
2.) Carefully check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles, which are less visible than other vehicles on the road.
3.) If a motorcyclist has its turn signal on, wait to make sure that the rider actually turns before passing them. The turn signals on many motorcycles do not turn off automatically, so there’s a chance they could be activated from an earlier turn.
4.) Never drive distracted. At 55 mph, taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds is equivalent to driving the length of an entire football field blindfolded.
“Motorcyclist fatalities continue to trend in the wrong direction, especially during the summer months, drivers must keep in mind that motorcycles’ size and visibility create unique challenges that require increased awareness,” said Mark Schieldrop, Senior Spokesperson for AAA Northeast.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App | TikTok