Tragic Day in SE Indiana for Motorcycles

This past Saturday and Sunday, in three seperate events, 5 motorcyclist were killed.

3 During a very well organized Poker Run, with police escort.
The teenage driver was watching the bikes go by and didn't realize that the cars in front of him had pulled to the side of the road to let them pass. He swerved into the oncoming lane to avoid rear ending the stopped cars and struck several bikes and riders.

1 When a car pulled out in front of the oncoming motorcycle.

1 Was hit from behind as they were getting ready to slow down and turn.

[url='http://www.wlwt.com/news/13474036/detail.html']News Story[/url]

[url='http://www.wlwt.com/slideshow/news/13478473/detail.html']Slideshow[/url]

[url='http://www.local12.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=24fe9b85-4b10-4336-b0c4-99d2ca33954f']Another Version[/url]

2 of the accidents occured less than 2 miles from each other, the other about 6 miles from the other 2.

For those of us who share the road with the cyclist please, be alert.

For those of you who have a motorcycle, please be safe.

CajunKing,
Thanks for the reminder. I'm saddened by the loss of life. This is the time of year motorcyclist particularly enjoy our highways. I know, I used to be an enthusiast. Rode in 41 states, never trailered my ride anyplace. Reluctantly gave it up about 2 years ago(age 64), lost confidence to ride safely, sad day. However, I have wonderful memories of seeing our great country, cheap motels, good roadfood, breathing fresh air, having a pepsi in some Mom and Pop store in a rural town while visiting with the good local folks.
So friends, lets all be cautious while sharing the road with bikers. Please don't misunderstand, bikers are responsible for their behavior as well.
Have a great summer!
Ole Rouxdog

We have had several deaths with motorcycles in the Denver area as well, recently. Most were due to no helmet being worn.

We also had a bill passed in the Denver area about the sound as well.

It happens everywhere. Here is a story today about a couple slamming into a car:

http://www.startribune.com/462/story/1238294.html

I'm too old to consider riding a motorcycle. There are more deaths for age 40 and up people than for younger people. That is opposite of auto deaths.

Yep Davydd,(from your news article) astute bikers are alert for the dreaded "left turn from oncoming traffic". I encountered this situation a few times while riding. Another rule of the road for bikers is always use the portion of your lane which makes you the most visible. Obviously, these awareness guides are particularly important when riding in high traffic situations. I logged a little over 100,000 miles without any serious problems.
As for helmets, my opinion may be controversial. Some states require helmets be worn some don't. My opinion, the helmet requirement laws were enacted mostly by folks who never have nor will ride a cycle who were encouraged and cheered on by insurance company lobbyists. The speeds at which most motorcycle accidents occur, a helmet isn't likely to save a life, just make for a better looking corpse.
Lets be reminded to do our part to keep our roadways a safe and enjoyable place.
Ole Rouxdog