POUGHKEEPSIE - Motorcyclist’s fatalities have steadily increased over the past decade. In 2007, there was a seven percent increase in fatalities from 4,837 in 2006 to 5,154 nationwide. Recent National Highway Traffic Safety data also reveals deaths and injuries attributed to motorcycle crashes are rising at a disproportionate rate and have become a growing highway safety problem. 2007 Traffic Safety data reveals that in Dutchess County there were 98 crashes involving motorcycles resulting in two fatalities and 121 persons injured (106 drivers, 13 passengers and one pedestrian).   

With that in mind drivers of all vehicles, whether you’re driving and SUV, passenger car or truck need to be extra attentive and make sure you “Share the Road,” said Dutchess County Sheriff Adrian Anderson. “Motorcycles are some of the smallest vehicles on our roads, often hidden in a vehicles blind spot so everyone needs to really look out for them.”

Motorcyclists have responsibilities too; they should follow the rules of the roadway, be alert to other drivers, and always wear a DOT-compliant helmet and other protective gear, he said.

Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than passenger vehicles occupants in the event of a crash.  Research shows that per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are about 37 times more likely than a passenger car occupant to die in a traffic crash.

This summer, in cooperation with the Dutchess County Traffic Safety Board, deputy sheriffs will conduct Motorcycle Safety Check Points. Enforcement of and education on New York State Motorcycle Laws will be carried out at various points in Dutchess County.