EDITORIAL: Keeping motorcyclists safe

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Idaho. By the fifth day of the month, North Idaho was off to a tragic start with two fatal crashes claiming the lives of the two motorcyclists involved in the collisions.

The May 2 crash on Highway 54 near Spirit Lake and the May 5 crash on Highway 41 near Blanchard are stark reminders of the importance of the message being promoted by the Idaho Coalition of Motorcycle Safety and the Office of Highway Safety this month. 

In 2023, there were 609 motorcycle-involved crashes in Idaho, an increase of 22% from the previous year. Thirty-nine of those were motorcyclist fatalities, an increase of 38%. Eighty-six percent of riders involved in crashes were injured. Twenty-one percent of fatal motorcycle crashes involved impaired riders. 

“These are more than statistics, they’re lives lost, families grieving,” said Lane Triplett, ICMS member and longtime safety advocate. “Motorcycles are less visible and less forgiving. A second glance can save a life.” 

Ensuring safe roadways for all users — including motorcycles, cars and trucks — requires all of us to do our part. Mutual respect and responsible conduct by all are key to making our roadways a communal space that’s safe. It’s a two-way street. 

TIPS: 

• Drivers should remember that motorcycles are smaller and can be difficult to see. 

• Be extra vigilant when turning or changing lanes. 

• Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or making turns. 

• Provide ample following distance, especially at night. 

• Be courteous and avoid aggressive driving behaviors. 

• Riders should maintain situational awareness, using the 12-second rule to maintain adequate following distance. 

• Be extra cautious at intersections, they’re common accident spots. 

We’re heading into our summer season when we’re all out on the roads of North Idaho and sharing them with thousands of tourists and travelers. Many of those will be riding motorcycles, look twice and save a life.