State Patrol reminds motorists to watch for motorcycles

As temperatures rise, more motorcycle riders head outside to enjoy the fresh air and open road.

This means vehicle drivers need to be mindful that they are sharing the road. Motorcyclists also need to be careful and keep their rides under control, according to the Wisconsin State Patrol.

Already, there has been tragedy in Sauk County. On May 2 alone there were two fatal crashes involving motorcycles, according to the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office. Both occurred in the town of Troy. The crashes were under investigation and names were withheld until families were fully notified.

In 2020, motorcycle fatalities in Wisconsin spiked 40 percent from the previous five-year average. Preliminary data shows there were 2,095 motorcycle crashes, which injured 1,788 cyclists and claimed 112 lives.

The State Patrol reiterates that May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

“Drivers must be in the habit of looking for motorcyclists,” said Wisconsin State Patrol Capt. Jason Zeeh, “and motorcyclists should watch for other vehicles and get properly trained and licensed. Together we can save lives.”

Crashes often occur when a car or truck changes lanes, turns left or pulls out in front of a motorcycle. Cycles are smaller and more difficult to see, especially when they are in blind spots. Failure to yield is a common error involving car/truck-cycle crashes. The average citation for failure to yield is $175, but penalties are far more severe if someone is injured or killed.

Cyclists need to do their part as well by following the rules of the road, getting properly licensed, wearing visible and protective equipment and watching for hazards such as gravel, debris or wildlife in the roadway.

 Motorcycle operators have two options to get the required Class M license in Wisconsin. They can pass a motorcycle driving skills test after making an appointment with the DMV or successfully complete a DOT-approved rider education course.

“Whether a person is brand new to motorcycling or a returning rider, a safety course is a wise investment,” Zeeh said. “Safety along our roadways requires all drivers to share the road, watch their speed, eliminate distractions and be alert.”