FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2020
Springfield Police Department Seeks to Remind Drivers of Motorcycle Safety and Awareness
This year Springfield has seen a record number of fatal motor vehicle crashes involving motorcycles. Between Jan. 1, 2020, and Sept. 23, 2020, Springfield Police Officers have investigated nine fatalities involving motorcycles. For comparison, there were three fatal motorcycle crashes in 2019, eight in 2018, four in 2017, and seven in 2016. The causes of the incidents are varied, ranging from speeding to inattention.
In an effort to help make roadways safer, SPD’s Traffic Section applied for and was awarded a MoDOT Highway Safety grant, that will be presented to Springfield City Council for approval on Monday, Oct. 5th. The funding from the grant will allow SPD to conduct “Share the Road” motorcycle safety courses throughout the year at no cost to the public. The one-day course will give motorcyclists tools to make them better drivers, with the goal of reducing motorcycle crashes. For more information about the course and requirements to apply, please visit our website.
We would also like to remind both drivers and motorcyclists of some important safety tips.
Drive a motorcycle?
Please consider these safety tips:
- Wear an approved DOT helmet, along with other protective equipment such as gloves and coat.
- Obtain a motorcycle endorsement
- Take a motorcycle safety course, which will provide training in safe motorcycle operation techniques and training in reacting to emergency situations.
- Drive at a safe speed and do not drive outside of your limitations.
Excessive speed (by the motorcyclist) is a contributing factor in a large percentage of motorcycle crashes in Springfield
- Understand that a motorcycle is less visible so be aware of other drivers around you.
- Learn proper braking techniques, such as threshold braking.
- Be cognizant of road conditions
- Avoid aggressive driving.
For other vehicles on the road:
Watch out for motorcycles.
- Be aware of your surroundings and be attentive to road conditions
- Reduce distractions by putting down phones and not wearing headphones.
Inattention is one of the top three contributing circumstances related to injury crashes.
- Be aware that motorcycles have a much smaller profile than other vehicles, so always remain alert for motorcyclists in the area.
- Avoid aggressive driving techniques and share the roadway with other vehicles
More information about each fatal crash involving a motorcycle in 2020 can be found in the links below:
September 19, 2020
September 18, 2020
August 29, 2020
August 17, 2020
June 28, 2020
June 19, 2020
June 4, 2020
April 1, 2020
February 2, 2020
# # #
Media Contact: PAO Jasmine Bailey
417-864-1786
[email protected]
Release authorized by Chief Paul Williams