State
police promoting motorcycle safety
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[October 01, 2008]
SPRINGFIELD -- Capt. James Wolf,
Illinois State Police commander, reminds motorcyclists to be safe on
the roadways. State police are launching an enforcement and safety
awareness campaign Sept. 21-Oct. 31 with a goal of reducing
motorcycle crashes and fatalities.
"During this time we will be focusing enforcement efforts using
directed saturation patrols and motorcycle roadside safety checks,
specifically targeting motorcycle license violations and safety,"
Wolf said. "All motorcycle riders must understand the importance of
proper training and learn how to be safe and responsible while
operating a motorcycle."
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There are two classifications for
motorcycle licenses:
Illinois law also requires eye protection for all riders while
operating a motorcycle or scooter upon any street, highway or
roadway in the state of Illinois.
"Illinois law does not mandate motorcyclists to wear a helmet;
however, use of approved helmets, protective body wear, boots and
gloves will give you extra protection if a crash should occur," Wolf
said.
He also reminds riders that "proper training is an important
tool, but it is just as important for motorcyclists to be aware of
their speed and the speed of other drivers around them."
Illinois state troopers will be working hard to make sure all
drivers are traveling at the proper speed, whether it's while
operating a motorcycle or a car.
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The state police commander reminds motorcyclists:
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Don't drink and
drive. Alcohol slows reactions and impairs function.
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Obtain proper
classification.
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Enroll in a
motorcycle training course approved by the Illinois Department
of Transportation.
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Always wear a
helmet, protective body wear and eye protection, boots, and
gloves.
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Before proceeding through an
intersection, check left, check right and check left again.
Checking left is important because this is the first lane you
will cross. Continue to scan the intersection in a clockwise
pattern, checking traffic approaching in front, in case that
vehicle should turn in front of you; 77 percent of motorcycle
crashes involving another vehicle happen in this manner.
[Text from file received from
Illinois State Police] |