The number of motorcycle fatalities has steadily increased nationwide since 1997, and unfortunately, Kansas is no exception. Motorcycle fatalities now account for 11 percent of total road fatalities in the United States and have increased each year from a low of 2,116 in 1997 to 4,810 in 2006. In Kansas, the number of fatalities involving a two-wheeled vehicle increased even more dramatically, from 3 percent of total fatalities in 1997 to 14 percent in 2006. While there has been success in reducing automobile deaths in recent years, this progress is negated by the rise in motorcycle fatalities.

That's why the Kansas Highway Patrol and the Kansas Department of Transportation are joining other federal, state, and local highway safety, law enforcement, and motorcycle organizations in recognizing May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

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"Warmer weather is here and more motorcycles are back on the roads. Drivers of all vehicles need to be extra alert," said Patrol Superintendent Colonel Terry Maple. "Motorcycles are some of the smallest vehicles on the road, so folks need to look out for them and take extra care to 'Ride Smart. Share the Road.'"

Motorcyclists are more vulnerable in a crash than passenger vehicle drivers, National data shows that approximately 80 percent of motorcycle crashes injure or kill a motorcycle rider, while only 20 percent of passenger car crashes injure or kill a driver or passenger in their vehicle.

"Motorcyclists also need to do their part," said Pete Bodyk, Chief of KDOT's Bureau of Traffic Safety, "by following the rules of the road, being alert to other drivers and road conditions, and wearing protective gear." In Kansas, 72 percent of the motorcycle riders killed in 2006 were not wearing helmets.

To help keep motorcyclists safe on Kansas roadways, the KDOT recommends following these tips:

* Remember motorcycles have all of the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width -- never try to share a lane.

* Always look for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.

*Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.

* Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle, motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling, and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is turning before you proceed.

* Remember that road conditions that are minor annoyances to other vehicles pose major hazards to motorcyclists.

* Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, when following a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. And don't tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.

KDOT representatives on all levels are requesting that drivers help share in the responsibility, and remember to "Ride Smart. Share the Road."