Press Release - 06-03-2019

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 3, 2019

Contact: 
Lisa Koumjian
[email protected]

Tim O’Brien
[email protected]

 

DMV, GTSC URGE MOTORISTS TO LOOK OUT FOR MOTORCYCLES AS AMERICADE RETURNS 

Annual Event Draws More Than 100,000 Motorcycle Enthusiasts to Lake George

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) today reminded motorists to expect to see a significant increase in motorcycles on the road and to use extra caution as the 37th annual Americade Motorcycle Rally returns to Lake George. The event takes place from June 3 to 8. This year’s rally is expected to draw between 100,000 and 200,000 visitors to the region.

“I want to welcome all the motorcycle enthusiasts from around the country who will be coming to Americade, which is a great opportunity to enjoy Lake George and the beautiful Adirondacks,” said Acting DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “Drivers should expect to encounter thousands more motorcycles on the roads before, during and just after the event. I urge everyone, motorists and riders alike, to use extra caution and share the road safely and courteously. We want all those who participate in this exciting rally to have a safe and enjoyable time.”

GTSC offers the following tips for both motorcyclists and motorists.  Tips can also be viewed on GTSC’s “Be Smart. Share the Road With Motorcycles” webpage.

For riders:

  • Obey the Speed Limit — In 2016, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 33 percent of all motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, compared to 19 percent for passenger car drivers. Source
  • Enroll in Rider Education — it is all about control. Whether you are a novice or experienced rider, DMV supports affordable motorcycle training courses for all rider skill levels, which can reduce injuries and save lives.
  • Ride Responsibly — personal rider safety starts with you. Before every ride, make sure your machine is in safe operating condition and always wear armored and reflective safety gear, including a DOT-approved helmet.
  • Ride Conspicuously — proper lane usage will reduce your chances of being in another driver's blind spot and lessen the probability of being in a crash. Be aware of your surroundings and always maintain a safety zone.
  • Ride Sober — don't ride impaired by alcohol or drugs and discourage other riders from making a bad choice. Intervene if you can; it's the right thing to do.

For other motorists:

  • Watch for Motorcycles — be aware of motorcycles sharing our roadways during the spring and summer months.
  • Yield to Motorcycles — don't make a rash decision and turn quickly in front of an on-coming motorcycle; it may be traveling faster than it appears.
  • Look Twice and Save a Life — check your mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes. Also, when negotiating busy intersections, look twice for motorcycles before proceeding safely. 
  • Be a Responsible Driver — ensure your vehicle is in safe operating condition and that all your safety equipment is properly adjusted. Don't let cell phones and other activities distract you from your core mission — driving safely.
  • Drive Sober — don't drive while your ability is impaired by alcohol or drugs.

New York State has been a leader in promoting motorcycle safety, enacting the first-in-the-nation law in 1967 requiring all motorcycle riders and their passengers to wear helmets. A 2017 survey by NHTSA found helmet use is significantly higher in states that require all motorcyclists to be helmeted than in other states. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, states that have enacted universal helmet laws have seen decreases in deaths, injuries and medical costs.

In 1998, New York implemented a rider-funded motorcycle safety training and awareness program known as the New York State Motorcycle Safety Program (NYSMSP). The program uses a nationally-recognized motorcycle training curriculum, developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

More than 250,000 motorcyclists have been trained in the NYSMSP since the program began. To find information on where to take a motorcycle safety course near you, go to the New York State Motorcycle Safety Program website.

For more information about DMV, visit dmv.ny.gov, or follow the DMV conversation online at Facebook and Twitter.

For more information about GTSC, visit safeny.ny.gov, or follow the GTSC conversation at Facebook and Twitter.