From May 14-21, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to 781 calls for service/events. Our higher call volumes occurred in the following areas: Traffic Stops-68, Traffic Violations-50, Suspicious Subject/Situation/Vehicle-37, Alarms-34, Assist Citizen/Motorist Assists-30, Shoplifting Complaints-28, Check Well-Beings-27, Traffic Hazards-26, Property Damage Crashes-24, Car/Deer Accidents-17, Domestic Disputes-16, Disorderly Person or Subject-14, MDOP-12, Argument or Verbal Altercation-11, Property Damage Hit & Run-11, and Assist Other Police Dept-10.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month - Spring is in full swing and around the country, motorcyclists are returning to the road after a long winter. But with a sudden spike in the number of motorcycles on the road, it’s a good time to remind all motorists, whether on two wheels or four, to keep a special lookout for motorcyclists, to remind everyone to be alert, and share the road.
Riders, consider these safety tips:
- Remain visible at all times by using reflective strips and keep your headlight on both day and night.
- Checking blind spots, mirrors, and using turn signals are necessary when changing lanes and when passing.
- Take a defensive driving course.
- Keep your bike in its best working condition.
- Give at least one car length of space between you and other vehicles.
- Dress for safety – wear a helmet, eye protection and bright clothing.
- Get your motorcycle endorsement. Know your bike and how to use it.
- Watch for animals in your path, especially at night.
Riders who have been cooped up all winter are excited to be out on the road again, but that shouldn’t stop them from using caution. Both motorcyclists and motorists need to be aware of their surroundings. Checking blind spots, mirrors, and using turn signals are necessary when changing lanes and when passing.
Distracted driving has been on the rise, too. Distractions during driving could mean the difference between seeing a motorcyclist or not when preparing to change lanes. Don’t let one text change anyone’s life forever!
Riders need to take precautions as well. Also, be aware of any road hazards and dangerous weather conditions. Most of all, enjoy your ride and make it home again!
Yours in Public Safety,
Sheriff Tom Reich