May marks the beginning of riding season for many motorcyclists here in Maine. It is also Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety would like to remind all motorists that Motorcyclists’ Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility. Motorcycle safety is an ongoing issue for all road users. When we consistently follow safe driving and safe riding practices, all motorists can help reduce the possibility of fatalities and injuries due to motorcycle crashes on Maine roadways.

Each year motorcyclists are overrepresented in traffic crashes. Two leading contributors to this reality are often excessive speed and alcohol impairment. It is important to note that, while in years past, riding was seen as a leisure activity, it is now often a person’s primary or only mode of transportation. It is essential that riders and drivers both pay critical attention to their driving habits and to each other while out on the roads.

According to data provided by the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, there were 35 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2024. That number represents 20% of the 178 total fatalities for the year on Maine roadways. Speeding was a contributing factor in 20% of all motorcyclist fatalities in 2024. Fatalities were nearly evenly spread among all age groups, but 25 to 34-year-olds had the highest number of fatalities. Alcohol impairment continues to be a contributing factor in motorcycle-involved crash fatalities.

We want to remind all motorists to always WATCH FOR MOTORCYCLES, and to take a second to take a second look; it just could save a life.” said Lauren V. Stewart, Director of the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety. Motorcycles are smaller and less conspicuous than other vehicles, making them prone to being overlooked by drivers, especially in blind spots. For this reason, it’s more important we put forth extra effort in looking closely before turning into traffic.

Vehicle drivers and motorcyclists can help reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on Maine’s roadways by:

• Observing all traffic laws and obeying the speed limit.

• Driving and riding alcohol and drug-free.

• Avoiding distractions while driving or riding.

• Yielding to motorcyclists especially when drivers are turning at intersections.

• Wearing high-visibility protective gear and DOT-compliant motorcycle helmets while riding. Learn how to identify a safe, DOT-compliant helmet at www.nhtsa.gov/motorcycle-safety/choose-right-motorcycle-helmet.

One other significant step that motorcycle riders can take toward promoting road safety for all motorists is completing a rider education and training course. For information on where to find a motorcycle rider training course, visit www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/driver-licenses-and- ids/car-license/driver-rider-education