CALIFORNIA - Reckless riders pose biggest danger

OFF THE WIRE
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jul/29/gay-history-mandate-motorcyclists-college-aid/
Reckless riders pose biggest danger

Anyone who regularly drives up Palomar Mountain can explain all the motorcycle crashes there (“Worst roads for motorcycles,” Local, July 27). Every Saturday, motorcycle riders race up and down the mountain at high speeds while dangerously passing cars. I have never been there on a weekend when this is not happening.
The intersection of state Route 76 and Palomar Mountain Road is not unsafe; the motorcyclists are. I am tired of reading studies aimed at looking for ways to spend public money in order to prevent irresponsible and reckless behavior. -- Sheri Snow Powers, Encinitas
I found it very interesting that the intersection with the most motorcycle crashes is on the same highway that has an unusually high number of car accidents.
My brother is one of those motorcycle riders who does not drive too fast, make improper turns or drive under the influence. What did he get for that? A car stopped in front of his path on the road so the driver could get out and check her mailbox. My brother and brother-in-law both crashed. They were lucky to only have moderate injuries.
According to my brother, many accidents are caused by riders not having enough skill and riding a bike too powerful for their abilities (much akin to those parents who buy their new teen driver a fast car).
While I do not think this article will have a great of impact on the accident rate, I hope it will remind everyone about the dangers of being on the road, whether you are in a car, on a motorcycle or riding a bike. -- Rebecca Van Cleave, Lemon Grove