Motorcycle fatalities jump 87 percent in Virginia

Hersey — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:10:35 +0000

The Virginia State Police is hoping education and increased awareness will curb a dramatic jump in motorcycle-related fatalities over the past few years.

The commonwealth experienced an 87 percent jump in motorcycle fatalities in 2007, according to the most recent figures from the VSP.

As a result, the VSP launched its “Ride Smart, Arrive Alive” program to help curb the rise in fatalities.

The program consists of three objectives — education, enforcement and roadway management.

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Motorcycle Safety

Hersey — Mon, 11 May 2009 11:02:18 +0000

An upsurge in motorcyclist deaths was reversed last year in Virginia, but state officials say too many fatalities still are occurring.

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles spokeswoman Melanie Stokes is reminding drivers to be more aware as the weather improves.

“As the weather gets warmer, more motorcycle riders are hitting the roads in Virginia,” she said. “Motorists need to share the road with motorcycle riders, while motorcyclists are reminded to follow the rules of the road and to wear helmets and other protective gear that will increase their visibility.”

That’s especially true because motorcycles are often in a car’s blind spot.

There were 79 motorcycle riders killed on Virginia’s roadways in 2008, down from 126 the year before.

In the five years up to 2007, the number of motorcycle deaths in Virginia soared.

The Virginia Biker Network » fatalities

Motorcycle fatalities jump 87 percent in Virginia

Motorcycle Safety