Given the warmer temperatures and the increases in gasoline prices, we recognize more Ohioans are turning to motorcycling for their transportation. It is important for motorists to be aware that there are more motorcycles on the roads and with that should focus on their surroundings when driving on Ohio’s roadways.

For that reason we are excited to again be partnering with the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) to continue our nationally recognized Ride Smart. Drive Smart. safety education partnership for a fourth consecutive riding season.

Our partnership with the AMA provides meaningful avenues to promote awareness toward the three key safety messages stressed in the Ride Smart. Drive Smart. program, which include:

• Ride trained/Ride licensed – ensuring riders have a valid motorcycle endorsement, quality motorcycle training, and proper safety equipment. Also, resources are provided to find examination stations.
• Ride sober – incorporating the AMA’s national Ride Straight program.
• Motorcycle awareness – Stressed importance for motor vehicle drivers being aware of motorcyclists.

Recently we released motorcyclist point-of-view video and data regarding the Top 10 roadway segments in Ohio with the highest frequency of fatal and injury crashes for motorcycles in the past six years. To see what the motorcyclist sees on some of Ohio’s most dangerous motorcycle roads in Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton and Lake counties, visit us on-line at http://statepatrol.ohio.gov. All the motorcyclist point-of-view video segments you will see there were recorded by placing a video camera on-board with an Ohio State Highway Patrol motorcycle officer.

In 2007 there were 4,982 crashes involving motorcycles, which included 190 motorcyclist fatalities accounting for almost 15 percent of the 1,257 traffic fatalities for the year. By combining focused enforcement, including the Patrol’s increased emphasis in Ohio’s major metropolitan areas, and public awareness, it our hope that along with the AMA we can reduce motorcycle fatalities in Ohio this year.

As a motorist or a passenger, there are some steps to become more aware of motorcyclists including:

• Respect the motorcyclist: Remember the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the privileges of any vehicle on the roadway. Give the motorcyclist a full lane of travel.
• Look out: Look for the motorcyclist on the highway, at intersections, when a motorcyclist may be making a left turn, and when a motorcyclist may be changing lanes. Clearly signal your intentions.
• Anticipate a motorcyclist's maneuver: Obstructions (debris, potholes, etc.) that you may ignore or not notice can be deadly for a motorcyclist. Predict evasive actions.
• Allow plenty of space: Don't follow a motorcycle too closely. Allow enough room for the motorcyclist to take evasive actions.