ODOT News
June 5, 2012
For more information: Sally Ridenour (503) 969-3359 or Michele O’Leary (503) 986- 4198
With a large motorcycle rally happening in Oregon June 8-11, ODOT is urging drivers and motorcyclists to watch out for each other and share the road safely.
The annual Hells Canyon Rally will take place in Baker City and other parts of northeast Oregon this weekend. The rally is expected to attract thousands of motorcyclists from around the state and the nation.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re on four wheels or two, we all have to do our part to share the roadways,” said Michele O’Leary, ODOT’s Motorcycle Safety program manager.
A motorcycle is one of the smallest vehicles on our roads, sometimes hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. It’s crucial that drivers always make visual checks for motorcycles by double-checking mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes, merging and at intersections.
Motorcyclists have responsibilities too. They should follow the rules of the road, be alert to other drivers, never ride while impaired or distracted, and always wear a helmet and full protective gear.
Unfortunately, 40 people lost their lives in motorcycle crashes in 2011 according to preliminary data from the Oregon Department of Transportation, up from 38 in 2010. That’s far too many family members, friends and neighbors lost in often preventable incidents.
ODOT offers safety tips for drivers and motorcyclists:
Drivers
- Remember, motorcycles are vehicles with all of the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width—never try to share a lane.
- Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
- Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- Remember that road conditions, which are minor annoyances to passenger vehicles, pose major hazards to motorcyclists.
- Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, when following a motorcycle, so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. Don’t tailgate.
Motorcyclists
- Always wear a helmet and protective clothing.
- Allow time and space to react to other motorists or changing road conditions.
- Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- Don’t speed.
- Motorcycle rider training and education save lives. TEAM OREGON offers classes for beginner to advanced riders.
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