Motorcycle Riding Can be Fatal

The Sun-Sentinel.com reported on August 28 a 20 year old motorcycle rider, Ryan Squitieri, was killed in a motorcycle crash with a van on State Road 19. The van's driver, Andenescia Walters, had been stopped at a stop sign on a cross road moments before the accident. Squitieri struck the left side of the van as Walters attempted to cross into the median to turn. Squitieri was wearing a helmet and authorities state alcohol was not involved. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, an investigation is ongoing and charges are pending.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows motorcycle deaths account for five percent of all highway fatalities each year despite the fact that only two percent of registered vehicles in the US are motorcycles. Serious injury or death occur in almost 80 percent of motorcycle accidents. 55 percent of motorcyclists who were killed, died in a multi-vehicle crash . Speeding, riding under the influence, and weaving in and out of traffic all contribute to the number of motorcycle accidents each year.

The NHTSA's "Share the Road" campaign is designed to educated all drivers and motorcycle riders about how to safely drive together. The materials are meant to remind drivers to be vigilant and alert to keep riders safe. At the same time, they are meant to remind riders to make themselves visible.