General Headquarters — Columbus, Ohio

For Immediate Release: July 19, 2006
Contact: OSHP - Lt. Rick Zwayer or Sgt. Jon Gray (614) 752-2792
American Motorcyclist Association - Tom Lindsay (614) 856-1900 ext. 1357

Patrol and American Motorcyclist Association reminds motorcyclists and drivers to “Ride to Work” safely

“Thousands of Ohioans enjoy the opportunity to ride their motorcycles everyday,” Colonel Paul D. McClellan, Superintendent of the Patrol, said. “State troopers are asking motorcyclists to ensure that they are safety-conscious and also ask other drivers to be aware of motorcycles by taking extra precautions and making today a safe day on Ohio roadways.”

“Ride to Work Day showcases what motorcyclists already know - that motorcycles are not only a great source of recreation, but also a viable means of transportation,” Patricia DiPietro, Chief Executive Officer of AMA, said.

Throughout the summer, the Patrol is providing a series of motorcycle safety tips from the AMA to help make it a safe and enjoyable motorcycle riding season in Ohio. Three key safety messages stressed through the program are:

• Ride trained/Ride licensed – Getting motorcycle rider training is of great value to beginners and experienced riders to learn about motorcycle operation and how to reduce the risk of riding a motorcycle. Information about motorcycle training is available through the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Motorcycle Ohio office at 1-800-83-RIDER, or on the Web at www.motorcycle.ohio.gov, or at select motorcycle dealerships.
• Ride sober – Riding a motorcycle takes coordination, balance, and good judgment. In 2005, approximately 50 percent of all Ohio fatal crashes in which a motorcycle rider was at-fault were alcohol-related. Riding “under the influence” of alcohol poses physical and legal hazards for everyone on the road. Learn more through the AMA’s national Ride Straight program at www.ridestraight.com.
• Troopers are stressing the importance of drivers being aware of motorcyclists – Other vehicle drivers were in error in nearly 48 percent of the 2005 motorcyclist fatalities in Ohio. When driving, please be aware of motorcyclists by taking extra precautions when changing lanes, checking blind spots, and taking extra time and attention at intersections.

Emphasis on motorcycle safety is important when considering, in 2005 there were 4,543 crashes involving motorcycles, which included 177 motorcyclist fatalities accounting for almost 12 percent of the state’s traffic fatalities for the year. This year alone, there have been 61 fatal crashes involving motorcycles.

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