Increased motorcycle safety patrols coming to Randle area
Jun. 21—According to the Washington Traffic Commission, more motorcycles travel on Washington's roads in the summer months than any other time of year.
Because of this, the commission said law enforcement agencies will increase safety patrols in Randle and surrounding areas June 27-30 during the ABATE Spring Opener.
The patrols will focus on illegal driving behaviors by both motorcycle riders and other vehicle drivers. The Lewis County Sheriff's Office, the Napavine Police Department and the Washington State Patrol will be conducting the patrols.
From 2020 to 2022, there were an average of 107 motorcyclist fatalities each year on Washington's roads. This was a significant increase over the previous three years from 2017 to 2019, when an average of 85 motorcyclists died each year.
In 2022 alone, there were 133 motorcycle rider fatalities in Washington. Preliminary 2023 data show 141 motorcyclist fatalities, the most Washington has experienced in a single year.
"We are in a public health crisis on our roads, and the increasing number of serious motorcycle crashes is very concerning," said Mark Medalen, motorcycle safety program manager at the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. "Safety is proactive and responsibility is shared. Deaths and serious injuries on our roads are unacceptable."
The majority of riders involved in motorcycle crashes were found to have taken specific actions that contributed to the crash. However, motorcyclists who complete beginner and advanced training courses throughout their riding career are involved in fewer serious crashes. The Washington State Department of Licensing is committed to working with riders and training providers and other agencies to improve rider safety in Washington, according to a news release.
With more motorcycles present on the road this time of year, the Washington Traffic Commission encourages other drivers to watch out for motorcycles.
"Before you change lanes, before you turn left, before you pull out into moving traffic, look twice for motorcycles," the commission stated.
"Always check your blind spots, learn to search for and recognize motorcycles, humanize motorcyclists, provide plenty of following distance and practice space management around motorcycles.
Visit ridesaferideon.com and dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/motorcycle-endorsements for more information and education on rider safety.
