Motorcycle advocates gathered at the State Capitol on Friday to address a surge in motorcycle fatalities this year in Minnesota.
According to Mike Hanson from the Office of Traffic Safety, 37 motorcycle riders have died on Minnesota roads in 2023, an increase from 24 fatalities at the same time last year.
This year’s fatalities could reach approximately 90 if current trends continue, the highest count since the late 1980s, Hanson stated.
State Senator Judy Seeberger, also a motorcyclist, emphasized the need for caution among all motorists. “Put your phone down and allow adequate time to reach your destination,” Seeberger urged. “If you’ve been drinking, please do not drive.”
She advised riders to look multiple times at stop signs and before lane changes to avoid potential collisions with vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Additional safety tips included utilizing mirrors, reducing speed, and wearing protective gear while riding.