Press Release - 06-06-2017

DMV News

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, June 6, 2017

Contacts:
Joe Morrissey             [email protected]       
Rich Meddaugh          [email protected]

 

DMV Urges Drivers to Look Out for Motorcycles as Americade Begins
More than 100,000 riding enthusiasts bring tourism boost to Lake George from June 6-10

            The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) today welcomed motorcycle enthusiasts converging in Lake George for the 35th annual Americade Motorcycle Rally, which is taking place from June 6-10.  As the week kicks off and more and more motorcyclists hit the road for Americade, DMV and GTSC urged motorists to use extra caution and watch out for motorcycle riders.  Americade is a seasonal tradition that draws between 100,000 and 200,000 visitors, providing a significant economic boost to both Lake George and communities along the way.

            “We love seeing so many motorcycle enthusiasts enjoying Lake George and the Adirondacks, but Americade also means thousands more motorcycles will be on New York’s roadways,” said Terri Egan, DMV Executive Deputy Commissioner and Acting Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.  “’Look twice and save a life’ is not just a slogan but sound advice for motorists this summer.  One motorcycle crash is one too many. We all need to focus on the road this summer as well as the people we share it with.”

            In addition to Americade’s anniversary, this year also marks the 50th anniversary of New York’s first-in-the-nation law requiring all motorcycle riders and their passengers to wear helmets. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimated in a report last July that 76 lives were saved in 2014 as a result of New York State’s motorcycle helmet law. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles recently put together a video on the importance of using a DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet.

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of New York’s implementation of a rider-funded motorcycle safety training and awareness program known as the New York State Motorcycle Safety Program.  More than 230,000 motorcyclists have participated since its inception.

            The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee offers tips for both riders and drivers.

For riders:

  • Obey the Speed Limit — speeding is the number one contributing factor in motorcycle crashes — SLOW DOWN!
  • Enroll in Rider Education — It's 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 concerning motorcyclists:

  • "Watch for Motorcycles" — Motorcycle Awareness. Be aware of motorcycles sharing our roadways during the spring and summer months. Please be aware of motorcycles throughout the riding season.
  • 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. They have a smaller frontal area and may be hard to see.
  • Be a Responsible Driver — ensure your vehicle is in safe operating condition and that all of 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.

 

The I LOVE NY website contains information on some of New York’s favorite motorcycle routes and scenic byways, themed runs, and rallies and events such as Americade.  For more information about motorcycle safety, please visit safeny.ny.gov.

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