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Thought we would be interested to know that there are some who care and work at raising public awareness. Maybe send a note of thanks. From Findlay, Ohio Courrier. Mel:Venture: Keep an eye out for motorcycles http://www.thecourier.com/display/2010/HFCUBB-AutoLoan-414.gif By JORDAN CRAVENS staff writer Diehards aside, motorcyclists have kept their bikes in garages over the winter. But now, they're back on the road, and both bikers and motorists have a responsibility to keep each other safe, according to Ed Schetter, executive director of American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Ohio. "Many people aren't used to seeing motorcyclists because they have been off the road since October or November," said Schetter, of Fostoria. "We do have a smaller profile than the automobile ... motorists just need to take a little extra time to look for us," he said. May is also Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Last year in Ohio, there were 152 fatal motorcycle crashes, including two in Hancock County, according to Lt. Jerrod Savidge, commander of the Findlay post of the State Highway Patrol. In northwestern Ohio, Wood County had two motorcycle fatalities, Seneca, Allen and Henry counties each had one, and Putnam, Hardin and Wyandot counties didn't have any last year, according to the patrol. "(Motorcycles) have just as much of a right to be out there as passenger cars or trucks. It just has to be a mutual respect for safety out there," said Hancock County Sheriff's Sgt. Mike Cortez. Schetter and Cortez said many motorcycle accidents occur because of right of way violations, like vehicles following too closely or failing to yield. "If you have a rear-end accident with an automobile, you are going to damage the car's bumper, but if you run into the rear of a motorcycle, you are going to knock out the bike from underneath the rider," Schetter said. This could lead to severe injuries or even death, he said. It's less risky for car drivers to slam on their brakes compared to a motorcyclist, Cortez said. "If they have to stop suddenly, likely they are going to lay their bike down and cause an accident," he said. Motorcyclists also have a duty to protect themselves and other drivers, Schetter said. "Make sure you are physically ready to ride and the bike equipment is ready to go," he said. Look out for potholes and rough railroad crossings and "be aware that automobile drivers aren't used to seeing us out on the road," he said. Savidge said motorists should anticipate motorcycles swerving around potholes or debris that a car or truck might go through. Allowing for extra space between vehicles will help, he said. Training opportunities are available for motorcyclists. For more information visit: www.motorcycle.ohio.gov/ On the Net: www.abate.com Cravens: 419-427-8422, Send an e-mail to Jordan Cravens
