The Ohio State Highway Patrol is partnering this summer with the American Motorcyclist Association ("AMA") to stress motorcycle safety and the delivery of specific safety messages to both motorcycle riders and other motor vehicle drivers sharing the road with motorcyclists.

The partnership and information sharing is purposefully aimed at motorists during the summer months, when motorcycle use is at its annual high. The reason for the timing is based on both logic and a wealth of sobering statistics: Good weather brings out more riders, and more riders translates to more motorcycle accidents.

Those accidents - especially when compared to crashes involving a sturdier mode of transportation, such as cars and trucks - are often much more serious. According to Highway Patrol statistics, there were 152 motorcycle fatalities in Ohio in 2009, and 3,290 injury crashes overall. Although those numbers actually mark a decrease from 2008, the following statistic remains centrally relevant:  From 2006 - 2008, motorcycle deaths had increased by about 35 percent on the state's roadways.

The AMA seeks to increase motorcycle awareness and safety through a few simple and direct messages highlighted in its national Ride Smart - Drive Smart program. Those messages are as follows.

First, the organization stresses motorcyclist competency. Before hitting the road, riders should receive quality training, complete testing and licensing requirements, and wear safety-enhancing clothing.

Second, the focus is on alcohol abstention while riding. The Ohio State Highway Patrol notes that 56 of last year's motorcycle fatalities in the state involved alcohol use.

Last, heightened awareness is stressed for other vehicles on the road, the AMA stating that other drivers need to actively look for bikers and accord them the full privileges of the road.

The bottom line: Motorcycle accidents often bring tragic results. An enduring focus on safety and awareness can help bring a measurable reduction in fatalities and other serious injuries.

Related Resource: MariettaTimes.com "Motorcycle awareness needed" June 26, 2010