IDOT introduces 'Gear Up -- Ride Smart' motorcycle safety campaign

Encourages use of proper riding safety gear, warns against drunk driving

[April 01, 2013]  CHICAGO -- The Illinois Department of Transportation kicked off the "Gear Up -- Ride Smart" motorcycle safety campaign last week in partnership with the Illinois State Police, Gold Wing Road Riders Association and A Brotherhood Aimed Towards Education, known as ABATE. The campaign promotes safe motorcycle riding through continued training and use of proper gear, and reminds all motorcyclists to get licensed, get proper training and keep motorcycle equipment well-maintained. "Gear Up -- Ride Smart" also warns against riding after drinking.

Motorcycles represent 3 percent of total vehicle registrations, yet motorcycle fatalities account for more than 15 percent of all vehicle fatalities. Statistics show that about half of motorcycle rider deaths occur in crashes involving only the motorcycle, and approximately 40 percent of those fatalities involve motorcycle operators who rode after drinking.

"Motorcyclists are at an increased risk of injury or death when involved in a crash," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. "When alcohol is added, the results often are horrendous. Illinois has embraced 'Driving Zero Fatalities to a Reality' and wants all travelers on Illinois roadways to be safe. That's why we encourage all motorcycle riders to get prepared early in the spring season by taking a training or refresher course on motorcycle safety, and to always wear the proper gear and never ride impaired."

Motorcycle riding groups echo this safety message. When properly trained and equipped, motorcyclists greatly improve their prospects for a safe ride.

"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 Jerry Allhands, Illinois District educator for the Gold Wing Road Riders Association. "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."

"For the past 25 years, ABATE of Illinois Inc. has been involved in motorcycle safety, awareness and education," said Mike Myers, state coordinator for the organization.

"This year, ABATE of Illinois has developed a 'Ride Smart' program promoting the smart riding choices a motorcyclist should consider before they start the motorcycle and decisions they will make during that ride. ABATE says some choices include checking your bike before each ride, hydrating with water, evaluating your medical condition before and during the ride, never assuming you are seen by other motorists, using proper braking techniques, staying alert during the entire ride, and using all appropriate and highly visible riding gear.

"As in anything we do in life, it comes down to the choices that we make that have the greatest impact on our lives," said Myers. "So my brothers and sisters, please 'Gear Up and Ride Smart.'"

"Motorcycle riders are more at risk of injury than any other motorists at any given time," said Illinois State Police Lt. Col. Terry Lemming. "The ISP encourages all motorcyclists to practice safe riding habits and wear the appropriate equipment for personal safety and the safety of others."

The Department of Transportation encourages all Illinois motorcycle riders to help create a safer motorcycling environment for all. To learn more about IDOT's motorcycle safety program, laws and regulations, statistics, and additional educational materials, or to see a sponsor list for literature distribution locations, visit http://www.startseeingmotorcycles.org/.

[Text from Illinois Department of Transportation file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]