DMV Reminds Drivers to Be Aware of Motorcyclists

ALBANY, NY (05/09/2008)(readMedia)-- Commissioner David J. Swarts of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) today reminded drivers to be aware of motorcyclists and to share the roadways safely and responsibly with the growing number of motorcycle riders.

Commissioner Swarts was joined by Joe Aiello, the State Administrator of the Motorcycle Association of New York State; Major Christopher L. Cummings of the New York State Police, Troop A; and Captain James Michel, Chairman of the Erie County Traffic Safety Board, at a press conference at Erie County Community College to help commemorate “Motorcycle Awareness and You” month as proclaimed by Governor David A. Paterson.

“Spring has arrived and so has the increase in motorcycle use. The goal of the partners gathered today is to remind drivers to be more aware of the ever increasing number of motorcyclists sharing the roads,” said Commissioner Swarts. “I commend Governor Paterson for proclaiming May as ‘Motorcycle Awareness and You’ month to stress the importance of properly sharing highways, utilizing smart riding habits and adhering strictly to traffic laws and exercising appropriate diving skills to maximize the safety of all of New York’s motoring public.”

Over the past decade, motorcycle registrations have increased from nearly 178,000 to nearly 307,000 in New York State – a staggering increase of more than 70 percent. During the same period, motorcycle operator and passenger fatalities increased from 99 to 192 – an alarming increase of nearly 94 percent. Statistics have proven that most motorcycle accidents are caused, not by the motorcycle, but by another motor vehicle not being operated safely.

Joe Aiello, State Administrator for the Motorcycle Association of New York State said, “The only way to improve motorcycle safety is through awareness, training and education. Safety equipment is designed for after the crash. We need to concentrate on keeping the crash from happening in the first place. The only effective way of accomplishing this is by making drivers aware, getting motorcyclists trained and licensed and educating everyone on safe vehicle operation.”

New York State Police Troop “A” Commander, Major Christopher L. Cummings stated that New York has witnessed a rise in motorcycle fatalities in recent years, in sharp contrast to the decrease in overall motor vehicle fatalities. As a result, Major Cummings expressed his support for the upcoming Motorcycle Safety Awareness educational and enforcement events. These initiatives are aimed at reducing these needless tragedies. Major Cummings stated that defensive driving, wearing approved helmets and adherence to existing traffic laws will all be highlighted in the initiative and play a crucial role in combating the dangers motorcyclists face. The Major added that for those who fail to comply, the scheduled enforcement checkpoints carry stiff penalties. The Major reminded everyone that the driving force behind this initiative is the safety of both the motoring public and those who operate motorcycles on our roadways.

The DMV provides a motorcycle road test waiver option and license point and insurance reduction benefits to those who successfully complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s beginning rider course. This recommended training is offered through the Motorcycle Association of New York State, Inc. at training sites throughout the state. Training information is available by calling 1-888-4NY-RIDE.

Driver safety tips and information are available by visiting the DMV’s web site (www.nysdmv.com) or the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee web site (www.safeny.com).

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