Press Release - 06-08-2022

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, June 8, 2022

GOVERNOR’S TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE URGES DRIVERS TO WATCH FOR MOTORCYCLES AS AMERICADE RETURNS TO CAPITAL REGION

More Than 100,000 Motorcycle Enthusiasts Attend Annual Event in Lake George

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) today reminded motorists to expect to see a significant increase in motorcycles on the road as the annual Americade Motorcycle Rally returns to Lake George. The event runs through June 11. This rally is estimated to draw between 100,000 and 200,000 visitors to the region. 

“Our mission is to make sure that motorcycle enthusiasts, visitors to Lake George, and drivers can all enjoy this event and the beautiful Adirondacks safely,” said 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 watch out for one another.”

GTSC offers the following tips for both motorcyclists and motorists. You can find more information about motorcycle safety on our website. 

For riders: 

  • Protect your melon! Always wear a DOT-approved helmet and eye protection. "Novelty Helmets" are not approved and offer little protection to the rider in a crash. In fact, they are illegal to wear on New York roadways.
  • Always wear high-quality riding gear designed to protect the rider during a fall. This includes over-the-ankle boots, and full-finger gloves with padding in addition to jackets and pants with armor protection at impact points.
  • Be conspicuous. Wear high-visibility vests, garments with reflector features and accessories to boost your visibility to other drivers. 
  • Maintain your motorcycle properly. Ensure all of your lights and horn are working and both mirrors are adjusted. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have legal tread depth. Remember, motorcycles maintain a smaller tire contact patch on the roadway when compared to other vehicles. Good traction is a key component to safe handling and braking in normal and adverse situations.
  • Maintain a high level of awareness. Scan the roadway constantly for dangers and ride alerts. If you are tired, take a break and re-energize to boost your concentration.
  • Drive sober. Never ride impaired by alcohol or drugs and discourage other riders from making a bad choice.
  • Turn left with caution. Most crashes between cars and motorcycles involve turning left. If you are preparing to cross traffic or turn left, take a second look to make sure it is safe to proceed.
  • SLOW DOWN! Speed is the number one cause of traffic crashes - PERIOD! Slow down, take your time and maintain control of the motorcycle.
  • Allow adequate space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Use the "two-second" rule as a safety zone.
  • Observe and obey all traffic laws, signs, and signals.
  • Let other motorists know your intentions. Signal when you turn with your directional lights or hand signals. Also, flashing your brake light periodically before you stop will alert drivers behind you to be cautious!

For other motorists: 

  • Watch for motorcycles. Be aware of motorcycles sharing our roadways during all seasons, but particularly during the spring and summer months when riding is most popular.
  • Yield to motorcycles — don't make a rash decision and turn quickly in front of an oncoming motorcycle as 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. Observe and obey all traffic laws, signs, and signals.
  • Stay focused on the road and your surroundings. Never drive distracted. Don't let cell phones and other activities distract you from your core mission — driving safely!
  • Drive sober. Never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs and discourage others from doing so. Impaired driving is an indiscriminate killer with no demographic barriers!

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.

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. 

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 DMV Facebook and DMV Twitter. 

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

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