ST PAUL, Minn. — Nearly midway through what officials say are the 100 most-traveled days of the year — Memorial Day to Labor Day — the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is making an urgent call to drivers.
"Make good, smart decisions behind the wheel," Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Director Mike Hanson said in a post on the DPS website.
With more vehicles on the road, the risk for serious crashes increase, and this year has been no different. According to recent data, traffic deaths are up nearly 26% from 2023, and its been an even worse year for motorcyclists. Officials say there has been a 57% increase in motorcycle deaths from this time last year, making it the second deadliest start to a year since 2016. As of July 10, 33 people were killed on motorcycles this year.
Since July, at least three serious motorcycle crashes have been reported, including two deadly crashes.
Public safety officials are urging motorcyclists to wear proper protective gear and ride within their skillset. The DPS says training courses can also help riders of all levels.
Here's a list of things the DPS says motorcyclists can do for a safer rest of the season:
- Be prepared for inattentive drivers by staying focused on riding, keeping your speed in check and maintaining a three-second following distance.
- Wear the gear from head to toe. Motorcyclists should wear a DOT-approved helmet and brightly colored protective gear for visibility and protection.
- Ride within your skillset and comfort level.
- Don’t drink and ride, never ride impaired.
- Know how to navigate a curve and
- Practice your quick stops to improve shorter stopping distance and reaction time safely:
- Some cornering and stopping tips:
- Slow down for the curve.
- Look through the curve.
- Press on handgrip (Counter steer).
- Roll on throttle gently through the curve.
- Some cornering and stopping tips:
• Take a training course. Visit motorcyclesafety.org for information. Taking a training course every couple of years will polish skills to stay safe on the road.
Motorists can also play their part by watching for motorcyclists, give riders extra room and drive at safe speeds.
Here's a list for motorists to keep in mind:
- Watch for motorcyclists. Due to the smaller size of motorcycles, their speed and distance is more difficult to judge.
- Always look twice before entering a roadway, turning left or changing lanes.
- Give riders room by maintaining a three-second following distance and check blind spots.
- Pay attention and drive at safe speeds.
