Sheridan County Sheriff asks motorists to keep a lookout and motorcyclists to think safety

As spring begins to arrive, more motorcycles begin to appear on the roads. 

According to the Wyoming Department of Transportation, Wyoming averages about 19 total motorcycle fatalities a year. The lowest fatality year in the past few years was in 2018 with 16. There were 17 total fatalities in 2017, 24 in 2016 and 24 in 2015, statistics indicated.

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Sheridan County Sheriff Allen Thompson asked residents to keep an eye out for motorcyclists as they drive around the county. 

Thompson also suggested that anyone, regardless of age who may be a first year rider, take advantage of the WYDOT Motorcycle Safety Program. 

Motorcyclists should be aware of the road conditions that are present in early spring, Thompson said. Sections of roadways may not get enough sun or have frozen water runoff from the day before causing ice to be present in some locations. Gravel from plows may still be present on many roads that can cause a motorcycle to lose traction easily. 

The Sheriff also suggested wearing protective clothing and proper safety gear while operating motorcycles.

According to WYDOT, motorists can possibly save a life by following these simple tips. 

• Stay alert when they see a motorcycle’s turn signal activated. Motorcycle turn signals can be non-canceling, which means the rider may have forgotten to turn it off. 
• Before proceeding, motorists should make sure the motorcycle is turning.
• Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections.
• Allow a greater following distance behind a motorcycle. Give them about a three-to-four-second following distance. That will give the motorist more time to maneuver or stop behind a motorcycle in an emergency. 

Motorcyclists can stay safe by following these simple suggestions. 

• Wear high-visibility clothing, a helmet and other safety protection when driving.
• Check their motorcycles to ensure they are safe for the road.
• Know local traffic laws.
• Obey traffic lights, speeds and signs.
• Commit to riding alcohol and drug-free.

Every year, classes for the WYDOT Motorcycle Safety Program fill quickly. To check status and register for a class click here.