BEND, OR — The state Department of Transportation is reminding all drivers and motorcyclists ti naje safety their top priority. Statewide, 19 motorcyclists have died this year, a 100% year-over-year increase and highest figure reported since 2009. (Click Here for details) ODOT's Salley Ridenour told KBNW News it's not just motorcyclists who need to focus on safety over the summer months.
"A motorcycle is a lot smaller than a vehicle, so they can sometime be harder to see in your mirrors. So, that's why it's important to actually turn your head and look before changing lanes and to give motorcycles a little more space to maneuver then you would a regular car."
Ridenour says motorcyclists can help their own cause by wearing bright colored clothing, have a safe breaking distance, travel the speed limit, signal before changing lanes or merging and wear a helmet. She said addition training can help motorcyclists of all ages and skill levels.
To learn more, visit ODOT's Website.
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