COLUMBIA - The South Carolina Highway Patrol is urging motorists to take simple steps to increase their awareness of motorcycles and is offering tips to help bikers avoid deadly collisions.
Two people have been killed so far this year in conjunction with the event. This week begins the 2008 Cruisin’ the Coast Bike Week in Myrtle Beach followed by Atlantic Beach Bike Festival. The combined events are estimated to bring in around 600,000 participants to attend the festivities.
During the two events last year, there were 132 collisions and 11 fatalities during that time.
The majority of the collisions occurred during daytime hours and in good weather conditions. Each year, collisions result from several factors that are easily preventable but usually stem from distracted driving on either the part of the biker or the vehicle operator including:
• failing to yield to right of way – either on the part of the motorcyclist or vehicle driver;
• vehicle and motorcycles making improper lane change;
• motorcycles following too closely/inattention resulting in running into other vehicles and motorcycles.
Motorists are urged to be especially cautious in and around areas where large numbers of bikers will be present but also throughout the state where bikers will be passing through on their way to the beach.
One cause for concern each year stems from bikers traveling in groups. Bikers take more risks such as running red lights and speeding to keep up with their groups often leading to collisions.
Problem areas along the Grand Strand include: Highway 17 Business, US 501 around Hard Rock Theme Park, and the back gate to the old Air Force Base.
The Highway Patrol briefed troopers today on what to expect and potential areas for concern.
Cruisin’ the Coast Myrtle Beach Bike Week runs from May 9-18 followed by the Atlantic Beach Bike Festival from May 22-25.
As of May 14, 2007, 38 motorcyclists have died statewide compared to 30 at this time last year.
The Highway Patrol strongly encourages the use of appropriate safety gear including helmets. Helmets are required for riders under 21 by South Carolina law. It’s also important for riders to ensure their motorcycles are being properly maintained i.e. checking tire pressure, tread, brakes and fluid levels.