USA - May is Motorcyclist Awareness and Safety Month IN ALL 50 STATES

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http://www.katc.com/news/may-is-motorcyclist-awareness-and-safety-month/
May is Motorcyclist Awareness and Safety Month
Apr 28, 2013
Helmet use, operator training and motorist awareness are factors that could be contributing to a three-year leveling off of motorcycle deaths in Louisiana, according to highway safety officials.
Gov. Bobby Jindal has proclaimed May as Motorcyclist Awareness and Safety Month in Louisiana. In recognition of the designation, the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission on Sunday helped sponsor the annual Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Rally in front of the state Capitol.
"Louisiana citizens recognize the fact that all licensed vehicle operators have the same rights and privileges on our state roads and highways; and all motorists should be aware of their surroundings while driving," the governor said in the proclamation.
Lt. Col. John LeBlanc, executive director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, said motorcycle safety involves operators of both motorcycles and other vehicles sharing the road.
"Operator training, proper use of safety equipment and keeping sober are key factors in motorcycle safety," LeBlanc said. "Also very important is that drivers of other vehicles be aware and respectful of motorcycles that are sharing the road."
Preliminary data for 2012 shows that 75 people were killed in motorcycle crashes that year, down moderately from 79 in 2011. Motorcycle fatalities in Louisiana spiked in 2009 when 104 people died in crashes. In 2011, the most recent year for which statistics are final, motorcycle fatalities represented almost 12 percent of all highway deaths in Louisiana. One-third of 2011 motorcycle fatalities involved alcohol and 44 percent of the deaths involved a single vehicle.
Observational surveys have shown near 100 percent compliance with Louisiana's law that requires all motorcycle riders to wear approved helmets.
The Louisiana Department of Public Safety sponsors motorcycle operator training courses that, when completed successfully, facilitate the process for obtaining the required endorsement on a motorcycle operator's driver's license. In order to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license, state law requires motorcycle operators to pass tests specifically designed for operating a two-wheel motorized vehicle. However, persons who successfully complete an approved motorcycle safety training course, such as those offered by the Department of Public Safety, can obtain the necessary license endorsement without taking additional tests.
Information about the DPS courses is available at www.lahighwaysafety.org


MICHIGAN:
http://www.minbcnews.com/news/story.aspx?id=890746
Riding out in front of 'motorcycle awareness month'
by Brittany Shannon
FLINT TWP -- Around 100 bikers took a drive to raise awareness about motorcycle safety.
The group wants motorcyclists and other drivers to be aware and ride with proper protective gear.
"It's the traditional start of the riding season so every year last weekend in April we get out here and we get the word out," says Michael Poage, awareness director.
May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. 


http://www2.erie.gov/clerk/index.php?q=may-motorcycle-safety-amp-awareness-month
May is Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Month
Erie County, NY- The warm weather is approaching, daylight hours are longer -- spring is finally here. Motorcycle riders everywhere are polishing their bikes and getting ready for warm weather and the open road. Motorcycling is a popular choice for economical and convenient travel. They are inexpensive to operate, fun to ride and easy to park. In Erie County alone, there are more than 22,000 registered motorcycle riders who use their cycles for commuting, touring and recreational activities.
I want to remind all motorists, especially new drivers, to be on the lookout for motorcycles and to share the road with them safely. Car and other vehicle operators must be alert to the presence of motorcycles on the road. Since cyclists often ride to one side of the lane and the cycle can hide in seemingly empty areas, I encourage all motorists to be aware of the car’s blind spots. Carefully check before turning or changing lanes and look two or three times before making a move. Allow more following distance for motorcycles -- two or three car lengths is recommended, more if the roads are wet or visibility is poor.
Unfortunately many riders never learn the critical skills needed to ride safely. Before hitting the road this driving season, I encourage all motorcycle riders to visit any of the Erie County Auto Bureaus to get properly licensed and to register their “bikes”. For more information on motorcycle licensing and registration please contact the Erie County Auto Bureau Call Center at 716/858-7450 or visit us at www.erie.gov/clerk and click on the Auto Bureau tab.
Additionally riders should also take a moment to review the aspects of motorcycle safety- wear protective gear at all times, including a helmet, ride within your skill limits, ride unimpaired and become a life-long learner by brushing up each year and taking refresher rider courses. Together, the more we raise awareness, the more we keep motorcyclists and all motorists safe! Riders can benefit from a Motorcycle Safety Program rider safety class offered at several local locations for both new riders looking to learn and experienced motorcyclists who want to pick up tips. Class locations and fees can be found at www.nysmsp.org.
All riders as well as motorcycle enthusiasts are welcome to join ABATE’S (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) 24th annual Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Rally and Run on Saturday, May 4 as we declare May “Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Month” in Erie County.
Riders should line up at 10:00 am in front of the Rath Building, 95 Franklin Street. A ride with police escort will begin immediately following presentations at 12 noon.
On behalf of all drivers, I urge everyone to use caution when sharing the road this summer. Let’s ride smart, ride safe, and enjoy the season.