109 motorcyclists killed statewide in crashes so far this year

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - With the fall weather here, motorcyclists and passenger vehicles will be sharing the road more than ever. Sgt. Bob Brewer from Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Department said the key to staying safe is a simple one.

"Slow down. Speed is usually the biggest problem with any type of motor vehicle and they need to slow down and realize that motorists don't see them as easily as you would a larger vehicle," Brewer said.

New motorcyclist Jonathon Gillen said he's learning the rules of the road from a motorcyclist's point of view.

"One of the rules is to never assume you have the right of way, because cars are going to win no matter what with a motorcycle, because you don't have any safety restraints or anything like that," Gillen said.

Motorcyclists may not have safety restraints, but Sgt. Brewer and Gillen both agree there is something every motorcyclists should do to stay safe on the road. Wear a helmet.

"It is very important. As a matter of fact the instructors tell you, don't even touch a bike until you as least have a helmet on," Gillen said.

"Oh it's imperative. It's imperative because it's the only line of defense you have if you fall off a motorcycle," Brewer said.

In a report from Indiana State Police, of the 109 motorcyclist deaths so far this year in Indiana, 89 motorcyclists weren't wearing helmets.

Sgt. Brewer said it's never a good idea to get on your motorcycle or moped without one.

"A motorcycle can be on the opposite side of a car, changing lanes, it could be behind one and you wouldn't necessarily see them. Even with the headlights on you wouldn't necessarily see them as easily as a bigger vehicle," Brewer said.

Brewer said riding a motorcycle is all about defensive driving and Gillen said he feels confident in his riding skills after taking a class. He just hopes passenger vehicles are ready to share the road too.

"If you can just try and keep an eye out and remember that we are out there. Not just motorcycles but mopeds, scooters, or anything like that," Gillen said.

Police suggest motorcyclists and people riding motorcycles and mopeds wear bright clothing, avoid riding in other vehicles' blind spots, and be aware of hazards that may be on the road.