Police Gear Up For Third Annual Motorcycle Safety Event

Off the Wire News

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Last year, over 200 motorcyclists and enthusiasts from across the Commonwealth attended the annual ‘Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day’ event.

This years’ event is scheduled for May 12 and promises to be bigger and better. A full day of activities is scheduled that include motorcycle safety exhibits, vendor displays, a free safety seminar, news conference and the ‘Cruise for Safety Awareness’ ride.

Highway Safety Branch Commander, Lt. David Jude is organizing the 2010 event in an effort to bring awareness to both motorists and riders about the importance of sharing the road.

"It is all about safety and changing driving behavior to reduce the number of motorcycle deaths in Kentucky. Last week was our first warm-weather week, which brought out the motorcycles," said Jude.

"Unfortunately, during that time, there were 21 crashes involving motorcycles where 3 motorcyclists were killed."

In 2009, Kentucky had 1,873 crashes involving motorcycles with 78 of those crashes resulted in death. Of those, 51 of the victims were not wearing helmets. Last year, there were 104,687 motorcycles licensed in the Commonwealth.

Jude is reaching out to riders, the motoring public and the motorcycle industry in an effort to bring all parties to the venue.

"Our principle concern is to increase driver recognition of motorcyclists in traffic, while at the same time encouraging cyclists to engage in the overall safe operation of their bikes."

"We already have representatives from the cycle industry onboard for this event. Many of these vendors who plan to participate will feature the latest safety apparel and equipment available to riders," adds Jude.

The "Cruise for Safety Awareness’ ride will be escorted by KSP and the University of Kentucky Police Motorcycle Unit, traveling from Frankfort through scenic Woodford County.

Jude said the event will also include a free motorcycle safety seminar taught by a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCoach.

"There's often an obstacle facing new riders," says Jude. "They'd like to buy their first bike or maybe upgrade to a newer, more powerful one, but worry about their ability to handle it safely. Rider education programs are the answer for both beginning and seasoned riders. We advocate attending refresher courses that help riders keep their edge by sharpening their skills."

Jude advised that space is limited for the free seminar to the first 100 participants who register.

Information about the seminar and other scheduled events for ‘Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day’ can be found on the KSP Web site at http://www.kentuckystatepolice.org/ or by contacting the office at (502) 695-6353.

All event activities are open to the public and free of charge. They will take place at KSP Headquarters located at 919 Versailles Road in Frankfort and begin at 11 a.m.

Kentucky Post
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