By Rolf Boone

The Olympian

Possibly enticed to speed because of lower traffic volumes created by the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a spike in motorcycle fatalities, a spokesman for the Washington State Patrol said this week.

Twenty-five motorcyclists have died so far this year throughout the state, including eight deaths during the week of May 3 and 12 in April.

“Starting off the year with this many is alarming,” said Sgt. Darren Wright.

Some of those fatalities:

• About 4:45 p.m. May 5, John Schweitzer, 49, of Rochester was headed east in the 9200 block of James Road Southwest, Thurston County, when he lost control of his motorcycle, crossed the road’s center line and crashed into some trees.

• About 7 a.m. May 10, a 55-year-old driver was headed west, approaching Orting on state Route 162, when he crashed into a bridge abutment.

• About 3 p.m. May 9, Eric A. Griswold, 55, of Lakewood, and his 45-year-old female passenger, were headed east on state Route 16 when he lost control of the motorcycle in the area of Burnham Drive near Gig Harbor.

The state was home to 92 motorcycle fatalities in 2019, the most here since 1982, according to the State Patrol.

Most fatalities happen during July and August. Combine that with the number of fatalities already and the year could exceed last year’s totals.

“We’re not off to a good start,” Wright said.

The State Patrol is urging riders to follow the rules of the road.

“Enjoy your ride but stay safe, obey speed limits, wear safety gear, be visible to other drivers, pay attention, and always ride sober,” a news release reads.

For beginning riders, and even those with experience, Wright also encourages both to seek rider training.

“Rider training is always a good idea,” he said.