May is motorcycle awareness month in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, and motorcycle safety advocates would like to remind the public to remind all users to “Start seeing motorcycles.” The Start Seeing Motorcycles campaign coincides with the arrival of warmer weather and more motorcyclists on the roads.  With thousands of deaths every year, motorcyclists are significantly over-represented in traffic crashes and fatalities. 

Motorcycles represent 3% of total vehicle registrations in the state and according to recent data, more than 11% of the fatalities in 2022.  There were 1,270 traffic fatalities with 146 from motorcycles. This number is down 21 from 2021.

During the season, there will be banners and yard signs throughout the state, to help bring awareness to the campaign.  IDOT encourages drivers to do the following.  Look twice before changing lanes.  Use your mirrors and look over your shoulder.  Give motorcyclists enough space to maneuver and remember that traffic, weather, and road conditions affect motorcyclists differently than other vehicles on the road. 

Motorcyclists should wear DOT-compliant gear, and use clothing that increases visibility in traffic. Cyclists should use lane positioning to increase their visibility. Have your headlight on at all times. Give yourself time to react. Always signal before changing lanes, don’t weave, and flash your brake lights when you are slowing down.  Above all else, stay sober when riding. 

For more information, visit startseeingmotorcycles.org.