Washington Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

WSP Encourages Motorcycle Safety

The Washington State Patrol is taking a zero-tolerance stance on enforcing DUI and driver licensing laws. This includes motorcycles. Beginning July 22, 2007, officers may impound motorcycles being operated by non-endorsed riders.

Troopers will be strictly enforcing laws related to motorcycle safety in order to prevent fatality collisions involving motorcycles. “Motorcycle safety has become a top priority for the troopers on the road. We are dedicated to reducing the number of motorcycle fatalities through strict enforcement, education and partnerships. We are encouraging motorcycle riders to get an endorsement, not consume alcohol before riding, and to ride at safe and legal speeds”, said Lieutenant Jay Cabezuela of the Washington State Patrol’s Kennewick Detachment.

Motorcycle Safety Data

• Motorcycle fatalities in Washington State have more than doubled from 37 in 1994 to 82 in 2006. Motorcycle registrations have increased 75% during the same period.
• There have been 25 motorcycle fatalities in Washington State from January 1, 2007 through June 13, 2007 compared to 28 for the same period in 2006.
• 36% of the operators killed in motorcycle crashes are not properly endorsed. 40% of motorcycle operators killed in collisions had a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or greater. Alcohol and/or drugs are present more frequently in motorcycle fatalities than with any other vehicle type (pick-ups, automobiles, SUV, etc).
• Motorcycle fatalities occur most frequently on county roads (38%) followed by secondary state highways (31%) and city streets (22%).
• Most common driving errors in motorcycle fatality collisions are unsafe lane movements, alcohol and/or drug impairment, speeding and inattention.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

• Take an approved motorcycle training course
• Get a motorcycle endorsement
• Don’t ride after drinking alcohol
• Slow down and ride a legal speeds
• Be visible with the headlight on and wear bright clothing

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