Warning: Distracted Drivers Ahead
In related news, Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations, announced the release of a Public Service Announcement made in conjunction with Nationwide Insurance. In this interview, he discusses how the AMA is trying to reduce motorcyclist fatalities on U.S. roadways.
1) "Distracted Drivers" is the latest public service announcement from The American Motorcyclist Association and Nationwide Insurance. Why on that topic?
EM: Nationwide's recent "Life on the Go" survey found that roads are full of distracted motorists, with 73 percent of respondents admitting they use their cell phone while driving. More evidence is pointing to distracted drivers as the cause of motorcycle crashes involving another vehicle. We wanted to remind drivers to put down their phones, lattes and make-up, and pay attention to the road.
2) With gas prices reaching new highs, more people are purchasing motorcycles and scooters. What advice do you have for new riders?
EM: First, take a motorcycle training safety course. Even if you've been riding for years, you'll find new skills in a safety course. Plus, some companies, like Nationwide, will give you a discount on your insurance for completing a safety course. Second, consider your first bike purchase carefully. A smaller bike may be the best choice for those new to motorcycling.
3) While participation in motorcycling is increasing, there are also more RVs and trailers on the road. What tips would you offer to drivers sharing lane space with motorcyclists?
EM: First, don't simply rely on the rearview and side mirrors to check who is sharing the road with you. It is especially easy for motorcycles to visually disappear within the blind spots on recreational vehicles. Always use your signal and physically turn your head to check before merging. Second, make sure any items you're storing on or outside your vehicle are securely tied down. It's especially critical for drivers towing a trailer to check for adjustments at every stop.
4) I have seen a number of stories lately about the rise in motorcyclist fatalities. What is causing this increase and what can be done to change the pattern?
EM: Part of the reason motorcyclist fatalities are up is due to the fact that there are more motorcyclists. According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, sales increased 34% between 1998 and 2003. Other factors have been the proliferation of larger vehicles, and the expanding use of cell phones and other driver distractions.
Through a grant from the US government and contributions of the motorcycle community, a comprehensive crash causation study is going to be conducted by Oklahoma State University. When the study is completed, we will be better equipped to understand how to prevent crashes and ultimately reduce fatalities on roadways.
5) How can the motorcycling community and the public support the new motorcycle crash study?
EM: The government has agreed to match money raised by the motorcycle community to complete the study. So far, through significant contributions from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, the Motorcycle Industry Council, the AMA and individual riders, the community has been able to make available over $3 million.
Additionally, AMA has established a web site to allow other riders to contribute to the effort through our "Fuel the Fund" program - one tank's worth of gas at a time. So far, individual riders have given over $20,000. Riders can find more information at www.amadirectlink.com/study/.
You can view the PSA at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPGazsBjxF4