By Richard Byrd

Columbia Basin Herald

WENATCHEE — Warmer temperatures mean more motorcycles out on the roads. With two deaths involving motorcycle riders over the past month in Eastern Washington the Washington State Patrol wants the public to err on the side of caution when operating motorcycles and when around them on roads.

A statistic from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) notes motorcycles account for only 4 percent of the registered vehicles in our state, but they are involved in over 15 percent of traffic fatalities. Earlier this month a motorcycle driver from Ephrata died after he struck a guardrail on state Route 28 about 7 miles west of Quincy.

“Over 50 percent of motorcycle fatalities in Washington involve excessive speed. This number can be reduced by simply slowing down and enjoying the ride,” Trooper Brian Moore said. “In analyzing fatal motorcycle collision data, WTSC reports that 57 percent of motorcycle operators were under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both, which is on par with the 56 percent average for all fatality collisions involving impairment.”

Motorcycle operators are required to have an endorsement on their license. The patrol states 36 percent of riders in fatal collisions are not properly endorsed and in around 75 percent of fatal motorcycle collisions, the rider could not provide proof of completing a motorcycle training program. In addition, all motorcycle riders are required to wear a Department of Transportation approved helmet

“Motorcyclists need to use extreme caution and watch for debris on the highways,” Moore cautioned. “Those traveling by motorcycle or by car are urged to pay extra attention to their surroundings and drive safely. The WSP will take appropriate enforcement to reduce the number of fatality and serious injury collisions.”

For a list of approved motorcycle rider training schools visit www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/motoschools.html.