Motorists and bikers urged to look out for each other

PIERRE, S.D. - August and the 2010 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally are drawing near, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol is reminding bikers and motorists to use extra care as they share the road.

Last year in South Dakota 16 motorcyclists died and 508 were injured in crashes on state highways. Statistics show nearly 30 percent of motorcycle crashes in South Dakota happen in four counties - Custer, Lawrence, Meade and Pennington - during a 12-day period surrounding the Sturgis Bike Rally.

"When the rally approaches, we see increased bike traffic mixing with
the already heavy summer motorist travel,'' said Major Randy Hartley, acting superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol.  "Bikers and motorists can increase their chances of staying safe as they travel if they make an extra effort to be aware of each other and respectful of each other's presence on the road.''

The Highway Patrol is reminding motorcyclists and motorists alike of the rules for sharing the road.

 

*	Motorcyclists should ride in single-file or staggered lines and
avoid crowding the center line or crowding motorists.
*	Motorists should remember not to crowd cycles. Motorcycles have
the same rights on the road as motorists.
*	Motorists and cyclists should follow the recommended speed
limits.  Motorcyclists should be especially aware of speed limits on
curves.
*	It is against the law to drink and drive.  Motorists and
cyclists should make sure they have sober drivers.
*	Motorists should remember to buckle up.
*	Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear helmets.  

"As fun as motorcycles are, you're very vulnerable if you're riding
one," Hartley said.  "The best protection for anyone on a motorcycle is a helmet."