Motorcycle fatals increase in Va.
July 16, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
More motorcyclists are traveling Virginia’s roads, and a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles spokeswoman says that’s contributed to an increase in fatal accidents involving motorcycles.
Since 2001, DMV spokeswoman Melanie Stokes says, motorcycle registration in Virginia has jumped by 105 percent.
According to the DMV, 38 motorcyclists were killed during the first six months of the year. That’s a 19 percent increase from the same six-month period in 2009.
Virginia recorded 71 motorcycle deaths and 1,506 injuries for all of 2009.
Motorcycle safety course for Norfolk sailors
June 21, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
There was thunder on the Norfolk Naval Station this morning as members of the Navy participated in a free motorcycle safety course.
Naval Stations are no stranger to the rumbling sound of a motorcycle engine.
Due to high gas prices, an unpredictable schedule, and a shortage of parking on base, more sailors are buying motorcycles now than ever before.
Monday, June 21, 2010 is Ride to Work Day!
June 18, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
Ride to Work Day is Monday, June 21st. We hope you will ride to work, …or just for fun, …or for your errands. Please tell all of your riding friends about the event. Any ride from A to B is important. All riders can help increase awareness about the benefits of riding. Your support and participation will help make a positive difference.
More information here – RidetoWork.org
10 killed on Virginia roads over Memorial Day weekend
June 1, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
RICHMOND – State Police say ten people were killed on Virginia roads during the Memorial Day weekend.
Troopers tell us that three of the deaths were motorcycle riders, including one man who hit a deer in Clarke County.
Motorcyclist Deaths on the Rise
May 7, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
If you are getting married or graduating this weekend, congratulations! You have won the weather lottery. The forecast is nothing short of perfect: Sunny, clear skies, and temperatures will be in the upper-to-mid 60s. Classic spring.
The good weather is likely to draw more motorcyclists to the highway. If you do ride this weekend, be careful. Since the beginning of 2010, 19 motorcyclists have died in vehicle crashes in Virginia, a 27 percent increase in motorcyclist deaths from the same 5-month period in 2009.
This rise seems especially ominous since no one was driving anywhere for a week or so in February 2010.
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles was concerned enough to put out a statement on the latest numbers, encouraging motorcyclists to take safety precautions.
“Riding a motorcycle requires extra caution and concentration, and the proper training,” said John Saunders, director of the Virginia DMV Highway Safety Office. “Helmets, eye protection and the right protective clothing – coupled with training – can make motorcycle riding a fun and exciting experience.”
Fatal crash on James River Bridge sparks questions about safety for motorcyclists
April 20, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
A freak accident on the James River Bridge on Saturday night has raised new questions about the safety on local bridges for motorcyclists.
Garlon Turner, 60, of Suffolk was traveling south on the James River Bridge when a strong wind gust flipped his 2007 Harley Davidson over. State Police and safety instructors say they might never know how fast the gust of wind was, but there are steps motorcyclists can take to enhance safety.
Melanie Stokes, a spokeswoman for the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, said motorcyclists need to exercise great caution whenever going over bridges or overpasses.
Focusing on Motorcycle Safety and Traffic Law Enforcement
April 19, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Virginia Highway Safety Office announced Friday that select law enforcement agencies across Virginia will focus on the safety of motorcycle riders through strict enforcement of all traffic laws.
As part of a statewide effort, on the weekend of April 17 and 18, law enforcement will conduct enhanced efforts on speeding, improper licensure, drinking and riding, and other infractions that are major risks to the safety of motorcyclists
Spring Motorcycle Safety Reminder
April 13, 2010 by Hersey · Leave a Comment
Within the past 11 days 6 motorcyclists have lost their lives in traffic crashes on Virginia’s highways. The number of motorcycles on the roads traditionally increases in the spring months.
“As the spring weather entices more people to take to the roads to enjoy the warm temperatures and scenery, we remind everyone to be more aware of other motorists,” said Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “It’s easy to become distracted when enjoying the views Virginia has to offer this time of year. However, the driver’s primary focus must be on the road in order to keep our highways as safe as possible for everyone’s sake.”
SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVERS & RIDERS:
- Drivers are reminded to be on alert for motorcycles, especially when pulling out into or across traffic, and when changing lanes.
- Riders are encouraged to wear proper riding gear and take advantage of motorcycle training safety courses (available through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) http://www.dmv.virginia.gov/webdoc/citizen/drivers/m_course.asp).
- All motorists are advised to comply with speed limits, avoid tailgating, use signals when appropriate, and be courteous and responsible when sharing the road with one another.

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