Motorcycle Awareness Month is marked in May

By Doug Pacey / ADOT Communications

With 31 days to choose from, the Arizona Department of Transportation chose to observe Motorcycle Awareness Month on May 18 and 19. On those two days, hundreds of motorcycles will travel together eastward on Interstate 10 and Interstate 40 as part of the “Run for the Wall,” a cross-country motorcycle ride.

The spectacle of hundreds of motorcycles riding together – according to media reports, a group of about 400 rolled into Phoenix last year and another 400 passed through Williams on I-40 – is sure to attract attention. With motorcycles on our minds, ADOT is taking this opportunity to remind drivers of all vehicles – two-wheeled, four-wheeled and more – to be more aware of motorcycles, making roads safer for everyone.

Some overhead highway signs will display the following message on May 18-19:

To the drivers of cars, always “look twice” for motorcycles because blind spots can hide them. Did you know that in almost half of the 2,988 crashes involving motorcycles on Arizona roadways in 2015 the motorcyclist engaged in “no improper action”?

Motorcycle operators must take responsibility too. Avoid riding in vehicle’s blind spot and don’t travel at excessive speeds. In 2015, speeding too fast for conditions was a factor in 44 motorcycle operator traffic deaths.

For new riders and those that might need a refresher, seek out a driving training courses. Completing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation rider courses offers the added benefit of being exempt from written and road tests in Arizona.