Share the road: May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - Experts say far too many motorcyclists are being killed or injured in motor vehicle crashes across the country. They say drivers and riders need to be aware of their driving habits and pay attention to each other when out on the roads.
“If you are on a motorcycle, they can be less conspicuous, so before you change lanes, before you turn at an intersection, or pull out from an intersection, stop sign, or when it comes to yielding on the interstate, you really need to be conscious of motorcycles,” said lieutenant Michael Johnston of the Maine State Police.
Data from the Maine Department of Transportation shows there have been 41 motorcycle crashes statewide this year, so far.
Contributing factors to these crashes include speed and alcohol impairment, distracted driving, and rider inexperience.
“Of the 26 fatalities in 2024, 14 of them had no hands-on training,” said Bangor Area Motorcycle School owner, Terry Atwood.
Atwood, along with two other instructors, has nearly 150 years of riding experience among them.
Classes at Bangor Area Motorcycle School run 11 hours over two days, with an additional five hours of classroom training completed online prior to attendance.
“They’ll learn proper riding techniques,” Atwood said. “For example, we teach how to properly take a corner. The technique is called “Slipper,” slow, look, press, and roll. The number one place for a single bike fatality is cornering because people have never been taught the proper way to take them."
“Everyone can ride, but to ride with those skill set makes a big difference, I have noticed,” said David Hill of Corinna.
Riders warn that even the most experienced can crash, leading to serious injury or death.
They encourage all motorcyclists to wear helmets and protective gear.
“I was in an accident about two years ago, and the helmet probably saved my life,” said BAM instructor Brad Swift. “I hit a car square on. I t-boned him doing about 45 miles an hour. I don’t even remember that day. Had I not had my helmet on that day, I probably wouldn’t be here right now.”
“Just wear all the gear all the time. Helmets, gloves, protective jackets, good pants, sturdy boots,” said BAM instructor Willie LoSciuto.
Experts say it’s important to yield to motorcyclists, especially when drivers are turning at intersections.
And drivers, don’t tailgate. Be sure to give riders enough space on the roads.
“What I always tell people is that if you think you’re at the right distance, give yourself a little bit more, maybe an extra couple of car lengths to allow yourself to react to something,” Johnston added.
“Don’t drink. Don’t do silly things like that. Don’t speed. You’ll be fine. I mean, I’ve been doing this for 50 years, and yeah, I am still here,” LoSciuto said.
Click here to learn more about BAM. Call (207) 322-5857 to register for a course.
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