May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The Tennessee Department of Safety, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Governor’s Highway Safety Office, Metro Nashville Police and motorcycle clubs across the state encourage motorcycle riders to educate themselves before taking to the roads. They also remind other drivers to respectfully share the roads with their two-wheeled counterparts.

“The number of motorcycle fatalities in Tennessee has increased 170% in the last 10 years,” stated Interim Department of Safety Commissioner Gerald Nicely. “Just last year, 126 motorcycle riders lost their lives on Tennessee roadways. It’s important that everyone exercise caution on the roads. Riders should wear clothing that helps them stand out in traffic, as well as a helmet.” Tennessee law requires all motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear approved helmets.

The number of motorcycle fatalities in Tennessee jumped from 46 in 1995 to 126 in 2005, a gain of 170%. The largest single increase during that time occurred in 2005, when the number of deaths climbed 40%, from 90 in 2004 to 126 in 2005. A list of Motorcycle Safety Tips is attached to this release.

Approximately 263,000 Tennesseans are licensed to operate motorcycles. “Motorcycle riding is becoming more popular, but cyclists must understand that riding a motorcycle is different than driving a car,” said THP Colonel Mike Walker. “If you plan to operate a motorcycle, it’s imperative that you educate yourself by taking a professionally taught and accredited education course.”

The Department of Safety’s Motorcycle Rider Education Program approves courses and instructors across the state. A list of approved courses in Tennessee is attached to this release. To find out more about the program, go to: http://tennessee.gov/safety/mrep.htm#training.

Governor’s Highway Safety Office Director Kendall Poole says motorcycle safety isn’t just the responsibility of the cyclist. “Drivers of other vehicles should be courteous and aware of motorcycles around them, especially at intersections. It’s equally important for auto and truck drivers to keep a safe distance from motorcycles on the roadway. This allows the operator room to maneuver the motorcycle and avoid road hazards or adverse traffic conditions.”