LOOK TWICE SAVE A LIFE

Spring has finally arrived, and that means all of us who drive will once again have to share the roadways with motorcycle enthusiasts. PC: Canva Photostock

 By Chief of Police Johnnie Torres, Jr.

Spring has finally arrived, and that means all of us who drive will once again have to share the roadways with motorcycle enthusiasts. I am one of those riders who has been itching to get back out on two wheels and feel the exhilaration of cruising the open road. But I am always extra cautious at the beginning of the riding season due to the not-yet repaired Michigan roads and drivers not yet used to seeing motorcycles. This can be deadly for riders.

According to the 2017 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report, there were 5,286 motorcycle fatalities in 2016. That is a 5 percent increase in fatalities since 2008. Bad Michigan roads and other motorists are not fully to blame. According to another NHTSA statistic, in 2014 43 percent of motorcycle riders killed in single-vehicle crashes were alcohol-impaired. Riding sober is crucial to arriving home safely after a great day of riding.

Also, as a friendly reminder, Michigan law changed in 2017 for motorcycle riders and now requires that a person have a cycle endorsement or risk being charged with a 90-day misdemeanor rather than a civil infraction citation as in previous years. And for you very young riders between 18 and 20 years old, Michigan law further requires you to wear an approved crash helmet unless you are:

1. At least 21 years old
2. Have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits insurance in effect, and
3. Held a motorcycle endorsement for at least 2 years, or passed an approved motorcycle safety course. MCL 257.658(5).

    Motorcycle enthusiasts in Stockbridge are very fortunate to have not one, but two, motorcycle events right here on the beautiful and historic Township Square. The first is the “All Bikes Ride” on May 6th starting at 10 a.m. The second one is “All Clubs Day” in September.

 So riders dust off those two-wheeled iron horses, give it a safety inspection, shine it up, and get out there and enjoy one of life’s pleasures. Fellow motorists, please be aware that we will be sharing the road with you and please LOOK TWICE SAVE A LIFE.

Be vigilant, be safe

Chief Torres

Chief Torres, a native of Flint, joined the Stockbridge Police Department in 2009 and became its chief in 2011. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan-Flint and is married with two adult children.