May 2021: Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

WHEREAS, the safe operation of a motorcycle requires training, use of good judgment, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and licensing requirements; and,

 

WHEREAS, most motorists are unaware that the majority of motorcycle crashes with another motor vehicle take place on local roads with speed limits between 35 mph and 55 mph; and,

 

WHEREAS, with more than 500,000 licensed motorcycle operators in Michigan, promoting a greater understanding of the dangers motorcyclists face in traffic and sharing the steps they can take to help mitigate the risks are extremely important in saving lives and reducing crash rates; and,

 

WHEREAS, in 2017, the Michigan Legislature established the Motorcycle Safety and Education Fund, which is fully supported through the licensing and motorcycle endorsement fees paid by Michigan motorcyclists, with the expressed purpose of informing motorists about how best to prevent crashes ; and,

 

WHEREAS, supported by a coalition of public and private traffic safety partners, the public education and outreach campaign, "Motorcycles are Hard to See. Look Twice. Save a Life," was launched to raise public awareness about where and when these types of crashes are likely to occur; and,

 

WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of all motorcycle operators to ensure that they have the proper skills, training, education, endorsements, and equipment to keep our roads safe; and,

 

WHEREAS, during this month, we raise awareness of motorcycle operator safety education, training, and programs, and we encourage all drivers in Michigan to "Look Twice" and drive defensively and cautiously in order to reduce motor vehicle collisions and save lives;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2021 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Michigan.