Virginia DMV urges caution for motorcyclists after 95 deaths this year
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Ninety-five motorcyclists have died in crashes in Virginia so far in 2021, prompting the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles to urge caution on the state's roads.
The death toll is a 17% increase compared with the same timeframe in 2020, when 87 motorcyclists died during the entire year.
“By combining safe riding practices and safe driving practices on Virginia’s roadways, together, we can prevent crashes and significantly reduce the number of motorcyclists killed each year,” said DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb, the governor’s highway safety representative.
Motorcyclists are considered vulnerable road users because of the size of their vehicles, and motorcycles lack a considerable amount of protection compared to larger vehicles on the road.
DMV officials offered several tips for motorists and motorcyclists to help reduce the number of crashes this fall:
• take an extra moment to look before changing lanes, pulling into traffic, and turning at intersections, because motorcyclists and other smaller vehicles may be closer than they appear;
• avoid distracted driving; the use of cell phones and any other hand-held devices while driving is illegal in Virginia;
• maintain a safe following distance; motorists and motorcyclists should keep at least 3 seconds between themselves and the vehicle or motorcycle ahead;
• always use seat belts, helmets and protective gear while operating a vehicle or motorcycle;
• slow down when riding through intersections; failure to notice the presence of a motorcycle is one of the leading causes of vehicle and motorcycle collisions.
For details about roadway safety for motorists and motorcyclists, visit TZDVA.org.
DMV also offers the Virginia Rider Training Program for both new and experienced riders, which includes courses taught by certified motorcycle safety instructors that provide the opportunity to learn new techniques and practice skills in controlled, safe environments. Classes are offered at community colleges and other locations throughout the state. For details, visit dmvNOW.com.
