OFF THE WIRE
BikersPost
Illinois - Several measures becoming law in the new year will impact you
on your motorcycle, including a provision to make cyclists more visible
to other motorists.
Lincoln Land Chapter of ABATE Illinois
Public Communications Officer Josh Witkowski said the so-called “blue
light” bill allows for a blue light to be used in the center of the rear
red light of motorcycles.
“What this does is it creates a
contrast,” he said. “When that motorcyclist hits their brake, you see a
contrasting light almost instantly.”
Such a design hopes to make motorcyclists more visible to other drivers.
“I
was behind one of these bikes while this bill was pending in the
legislature, and I was amazed by how quickly it grabs your attention as a
motorist — and it’s been a good thing,” Witkowski said. “It’s good for
visibility out there on the road, which increases safety and reduces the
risk of accidents.”
Witkowski added that ABATE, a motorcycle advocacy group, focuses on safety and visibility.
“The
faster people can see a motorcycle while it’s on the road, the easier
it is for them to see us, the better it is for everybody’s safety,” he
said. “And it reduces accidents out on the road.”
Another measure
taking effect in 2017 creates a U.S. Route 66 specialty plate for
motorcycles, with funds going to preserve the historic roadway.
Witkowski said Route 66 is a big draw for motorcyclists from around the world.
“At
least twice a week during the riding season, there is a group from out
of the country,” he said. “They come from Korea, Germany, France, Italy,
Australia.”
Extra money from the annual license plate fee goes
to the Route 66 Scenic Byways Commission to preserve the history of the
legendary roadway.
Both measures passed unanimously; they take effect Jan. 1.
Read more: http://rockrivertimes.com/2016/12/29/new-laws-provide-new-light-plate-options-for-motorcyclists/
