I JUST WANT 2 RIDE!!

What you need to know… There has been an increase in motorcycle rider deaths.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its final 2022 Fatality Analysis Reporting System traffic crash data. NHTSA reported 42,514 total fatalities in the U.S. in 2022. That is a 1.7% decrease from the previous year.

BUT, motorcyclists deaths increased 1.2%. The official number of motorcyclists killed in 2022 was 6,218, an increase of 75 deaths compared to 2021.

Alcohol-impaired fatal crashes account for 29% of all motorcyclist deaths. Across the nation, 7.8% of fatal crashes involved a “distracted driver.” 

My Take –DOWNSHIFT – 1800 people killed due to riding while drunk, wow. I hope the 2023 numbers are better.  If you want to see the entire NHTSA report click this link.

What you need to know… Speed cameras to catch cell phone users

In England the police are deploying AI powered cameras that not only catches speeding cars but people using their phones while at the wheel.

Each unit will have multiple cameras to give the most complete view of drivers and passengers, with the kit mounted on either a trailer, or specialist van.

“Working with our police partners we want to reduce such dangerous driving and reduce the risks posed to both the drivers and other people. We believe that using technology like this will make people seriously consider their driving behavior,” Head of National Road User Safety Delivery at National Highways. Matt Staton said.

Drivers can be fined up to £500 for not wearing a seat belt, with phone users getting up to six points and a £1000 fine,

My Take – Hitting Neutral – While this is a step in the right direction to bust distracted drivers, why are we even having this problem.  The phone companies could be forced to tun off everything, but the hand-fee features when the phones are moving at more than 5 MPH.  The technology is already there.

Ride on, Ride Safe