May 2023: Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

WHEREAS, the safe operation of a motorcycle requires training, good judgment, and thorough knowledge of traffic laws and licensing requirements; and,

WHEREAS, most motorists are unaware that the majority of motorcycle crashes with another motor vehicle take place on local roads with speed limits between 35 and 55 mph; and,

WHEREAS, with more than 560,450 licensed motorcycle operators in Michigan, promoting a greater understanding of the dangers motorcyclists face in traffic and sharing the steps they can take to help mitigate risks is vital to save lives and reduce crash rates; and,

WHEREAS, the "Motorcyclists are Hard to See, Look Twice. Save a Life.," public education campaign funded by motorcyclists through the Motorcycle Safety and Education Awareness Fund, is entering its fifth year to raise public awareness about vehicle-motorcycle crashes and the ways to prevent them; and,

WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of all motorcycle operators to ensure that they have the proper skills, training, education, endorsements, and equipment to keep our roads safe; and,

WHEREAS, during this month, we raise awareness of motorcycle operator safety education, training, and programs, and encourage all drivers in Michigan to "Look Twice" and drive defensively and cautiously to reduce collisions and save lives;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2023 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Michigan.