(Albany - 5/1/07)  Commissioner David J. Swarts of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Chair of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) today reminded drivers to be aware of motorcyclists and to share the roadways safely and responsibly with the growing numbers of motorcycle riders. Governor Eliot Spitzer recently proclaimed May as "Motorcycle Awareness and You" month.

"As spring has arrived, so has the annual increase in motorcycle use and the GTSC reminds drivers to be aware of motorcyclists," said Commissioner Swarts. "I commend the Governor for proclaiming May as "Motorcycle Awareness and You" month to stress the importance of properly sharing highways, strictly adhering to traffic laws and utilizing smart traffic safety habits to maximize the safety of all of New York's motoring public."

Statistics have proven that most motorcycle accidents are the cause of a motor vehicle other then the motorcycle not practicing proper highway safety or are the cause of driver inattention. In fact, it has been proven that most accidents are caused by drivers pulling out in front of a motorcyclist while making a left turn off a roadway. In 2005 alone, there were nearly 4,900 accident involving motorcycles that resulted in 172 fatalities.

Commissioner Swarts further recommends that motorcyclists themselves implement the following safety tips to help protect their safety and that of other travelers:

• Take a Motorcycle RiderCourse® to develop good basic riding techniques, sharpen street-riding strategies and improve accident-avoidance skills. More than 90 percent of riders involved in accidents had no formal training;
• Ensure that motorcyclists are properly licensed. A significant number of all motorcycle riders involved in crashes are unlicensed or improperly licensed;
• Wear appropriate gear for comfort and protection;
• Wear bright clothing and use retroreflective material;
• Avoid fatigue and drowsiness, as it can impair a motorcyclist's ability to react;
• Determine a route in advance and coordinate with the other riders when riding together;
• Conduct a safety inspection of the motorcycle before each ride;
• Avoid alcohol and other drugs, as they affect judgment and do not mix with motorcycling;
• Do not speed and know the local traffic laws and rules of the road; and
• Be considerate on the road and show courtesy and respect to other drivers.

New York State participates annually in a national campaign called "Motorcycle Awareness and You" which is designed to inform motorists, truck drivers and pedestrians that the motorcycle season has begun.

DMV also provides the motorcycle road test waiver option and license point and insurance reduction benefits to those who successfully complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's beginning rider course. The recommended training is offered through the Motorcycle Association of New York State, Inc. at training sites throughout the State. Training information is available by calling 1-888-4NY-RIDE.

The GTSC coordinates traffic safety activities across the State and is comprised of 13 member agencies, including the DMV. The head of each agency acts as that agency's official representative to the Committee, whose initiatives include programs that are designed to promote highway safety. Commissioner Swarts serves as Chair of GTSC.

To listen to a downloadable audio clip of Commissioner Swarts regarding motorcycle safety, please visit the DMV website. For a copy of the Governor's proclamation, please contact DMV Office of Communications at (518) 473-7000. Additional driver safety tips and information can be found by visiting the DMV's website at www.nysdmv.com or the GTSC's website at www.safeny.com.