Safety is duty of motorcyclists, too

Whenever I see the slogan “Start seeing motorcycles” I think about the times I do see motorcycles. More often than not they are weaving recklessly through traffic on the tollway. Or, they are zooming past everyone well above the speed limit — sometimes on the shoulder. I’ve even seen cyclists doing wheelies and other stunts on busy highways. If motorcyclists are so concerned about their safety, why is it so many don’t wear helmets?

When you read about motorcycle accidents — many resulting in the death of the riders and passengers — there’s almost always only one vehicle involved: the motorcycle itself. True, there are many safe and sane motorcyclists out there who recognize the hazards, take the proper precautions and enjoy the exhilaration an open ride can bring and arrive safely to ride again. But for those who scoff at the safe practices of riding a motorcycle, don’t blame me for not seeing you — you just went by too fast and then darted around a number of other vehicles out of sight.

Bill Holtane

Des Plaines