MDOT promotes safety during National Bike Month

May 1, 2012 -- While the number of crashes, injuries and fatalities on roads in Michigan were down from the year before, 2011 statistics released by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) indicate that fatal crashes involving bicyclists are disproportionally high.

Last year, there were 1,885 reported crashes involving bicyclists in Michigan resulting in 1,479 injuries and 24 fatalities. Although the number of fatalities is down 17 percent (there were 29 fatalities in 2010), fatal crashes involving bicyclists remains disproportionately high compared to other roadway users or crash types.

"While this data suggests some improvement over 2010, drivers must remain focused at all times when they get behind the wheel. Even one death is too many," said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. "These crashes are avoidable and drivers should always be alert and pass slower moving traffic, which includes bicyclists, from a safe distance."

May is National Bike Month, and Bike to Work Week is May 14-18.

"We join other transportation agencies during this time to raise awareness and promote our safety message: 'Give 'em Space, Make it Safe, Please Share the Road,'" stated Steudle.

MDOT reminds drivers: Lives are in your hands - always pass cyclists at a safe distance.