Breaking News for Culpeper and Warrenton Accident Victims

Virginia Motorcyclists Reminded to Keep Spring Fever in Check

Posted on May 18, 2011

Higher gas prices have conspired with warmer weather to bring more bikers than ever to Virginia's roads, WTVR.com reports. AAA Mid-Atlantic and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) join federal, state, and local highway safety organizations, as well as law enforcement and motorcycle associations, to remind Culpeper, Fauquier, and all Virginia motorists to be extra alert for motorcycles.

"Motorcycles are some of the most vulnerable vehicles on the road, so motorists need to be especially cautious and respectful in order for everyone to share the road safely," says Martha M. Meade, manager of Public and Government Affairs at AAA Mid-Atlantic.

Ten motorcyclists have been killed in crashes in Virginia so far in 2011, according to the Virginia DMV, which is a 41 percent decrease over the same period last year. In 2010, 78 motorcycle riders were killed and 1,981 were injured in Virginia. Crashes usually occurred for these reasons: following too closely, speeding, and avoiding other vehicles.

Whether caused by the motorcyclist or by the driver of another vehicle, crashes involving motorcycles are far more harmful to the biker than to the other vehicle's occupants. In fact, about 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in an injured or killed motorcycle rider. On the other hand, only 20 percent of passenger car crashes leave the passenger car's occupants injured or dead.

Ultimately, sharing the road means being attentive and looking out for others.