There is both positive and sobering news to report in Ohio regarding motorcycle safety and motorcycle accidents. As to the former, Ohio Safety Office statistics indicate that there were fewer bike fatalities last year than in 2008. Notwithstanding that, though, numbers from the state Department of Public Safety's Traffic Safety Office show that cycle-related deaths are once again up this year when compared to the same time frame last year; moreover, motorcycle crashes and fatalities continue to occur at a much higher rate in Ohio than they do in the neighboring states of Michigan and Indiana.

"We are watching fatalities very closely," says Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Thomas J. Stickrath, "and it is crucial that we continue to educate everyone that riding and driving alert will save lives."

Education comes in the form of never-ending reminders from safety experts on riding tips and the factors that most promote motorcycle safety. "Driving defensively is what it really comes down to," says Highway Patrol Sgt. Russ Clark.

And that means using headlights at all times. Motorcycle instructor Darl Schiets recommends high beams, stating that other drivers "will see your headlight five blocks before they get to you." A few other tips, too, are commonly passed along, including the following mainstays:  Wear a helmet, favor bright clothing, try to avoid braking with the front wheel turned and focus always on what other drivers around you are doing now and what they will likely do in upcoming seconds.

Related Resource: www.thenews-messenger.com "Fatal motorcycle crashes up in Ohio" August 13, 2010