JUST RECEIVED, Media Release 3-19-2010

OFF THE WIRE
Received a correspondence back from the WSP in regard to a recent Media release. Amazing what the power of one letter can do.
I have included the original media release as an attachment.
Breeze
Sir, the release below with the proper language is attached and I apologize for the confusion. The data used was from our district 7 motorcycle fatal data that actually showed 80% of motorcycles to have been at fault in 2008 (Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Island Counties that the wsp investigated). The reason for using older data is that changes are less likely than newer data. I would have used data from 09 but the data was not complete at the time. Out of 15 motorcycle collisions in 08’, 12 (or 80%) of the 15 were the fault of the motorcyclist. We since had a steep reduction in 09 (4 MC fatal’s) which is good news. Our goal hopefully is to have zero MC fatalities.

If there is a specific message you would like to suggest we get out there, I am open to ideas..

Trooper Leary
Washington State Patrol
Media Release
Chief John R. Batiste

Captain Jeff DeVere
Government and Media Relations
(360) 753-5299 – office
(360) 753-5469 – fax
http://www.wsp.wa.gov

***For Immediate Release***
Date: March 19, 2010
Contact: Trooper Keith Leary
Phone: (425) 508-0793
Email: Keith.Leary@wsp.wa.gov

As the spring sun approaches, so do the Motorcycles
This weekend’s weather looks to be perfect to be out riding a motorcycle. “With the increased number of motorcyclists on the road comes the potential for more motorcycle collisions,” advises Captain Ken Ginnard.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) wants riders to ride safely. They recommend riders watch for road construction, traffic congestion, and other vehicles around them.
They strongly suggest that motorists keep special watch for motorcycles. When stopping at stop signs, check twice before proceeding.
The WSP is recommending that motorcyclists be properly trained, always ride with their headlights on, and wear bright clothing and proper safety equipment, including a helmet label shall contain the symbol "DOT" which is the manufacturer's certification that the helmet conforms to applicable federal safety standards. They also want to remind riders to have the proper motorcycle endorsement. Motorcycle collision data shows that approximately 80% of motorcycle fatalities in Snohomish, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties in 2008 were single-vehicle incidents, with the most common causes being excessive speed, impaired driving, and the inability to stay in the lane of travel.
Captain Ken Ginnard says, "As there is a great possibility of having our first taste of spring this weekend, we want all motorists to ride and drive safely."
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Nice work Breeze,

Its going to become apparent that now they have someone checking up on them, they will have to be a little more careful about the propaganda machine.