It might be early, but as long as the snow is melting it’s not too early for die-hard riders to hit the roads. Motorists unprepared for riders on the road in early spring are at increased risk of causing a Chicago motorcycle accident.
The Illinois Department of Transportation has teamed with the Gold Wing Road Riders Association and a Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education (ABATE) to warn motorists to watch for cyclists this spring.Our Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys know that more than half of all motorcycle accidents that involve another vehicle are the fault of the motorist, and not the rider.
“IDOT is dedicated to motorcycle safety in Illinois and has developed a proven and effective traffic safety program to positively impact motorcyclists and the general public as a whole,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable of highway users, and we want to work together to promote motorcycle safety and help protect all of the motoring public.”
In an effort to address those accidents which involve fault on the part of the rider, the organizations are kicking off a statewide campaign called “Gear Up,” which is aimed at encouraging riders to wear the proper equipment and receive the proper training.
“Our goals are to educate our members in proper riding techniques and safe operation and to improve public acceptance and awareness of motorcyclists while maintaining a friendly, fun atmosphere,” said GWRRA Illinois District Director Dan Ribbing. “The Illinois District of the GWRRA is proud to cooperate with the State of Illinois and all of its departments in educating the motoring public.”
Despite representing less than 3 percent of the vehicles on the road, motorcycle riders account for about 1 in 7 fatality victims.
“The mission of the members of ABATE. of Illinois is to preserve the universal right to a safe, unrestricted motorcycling environment, and to propose and advocate actions that can be taken by elected and appointed officials to protect and conserve the natural resources of the State of Illinois, and ensure through professional management that sustainable use, recreational opportunities and enjoyment of these new resources is available for this and future generations,” said ABATE of Illinois, Inc.
IDOT offers the following safety tips as part of the “Gear Up” campaign:
-Wear the proper gear, including a DOT-approved helmet, goggles or glasses, long pants and gloves, and protective footwear. High-visibility clothing can offer added protection.
-Make sure your bike is properly serviced and in good repair.
-Take advantage of free training opportunities and other safety programs. IDOT will make 25,000 free training slots available in 2011 to riders of all skill levels. Click here to learn more about Illinois motorcycle safety courses.
-Make sure you have the proper license and you obey all traffic laws. About 1 in 5 riders killed in accidents do not have the proper license.
-Never drink and ride. Alcohol plays a part in more than one-third of all fatal motorcycle crashes.
-Know your abilities and do not ride beyond them.
To learn more about motorcycle safety in Illinois visit Start Seeing Motorcycles.
The Illinois motorcycle accident lawyers at Abels & Annes offer free and confidential appointments to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.