May is Motorcycle Safety Month and Overton County Sheriff John Garrett said motorcycles are a popular hobby across our region.
Garrett said motorcyclists can stay safe by wearing a certified helmet and improving their visibility while driving. Garrett said wearing bright or reflective clothing, in addition to using lights, can make motorcyclists easier to see. Garrett said reducing speed is another way to improve safety.
“I know motorcycles are fun to ride, and sometimes a curvy road is a little more fun than just cruising on a straight stretch,” Garrett said. “But let’s just remember, let’s slow down. Speed is always a factor in any crash.”
Garrett said motorcyclists should ride single file when in groups rather than side by side in one lane. Garrett said other motorists should do their part in sharing the road.
“The weather’s right for it, so [motorcycles] are going to be out,” Garrett said. “Make sure to look twice, and just be aware that motorcycles are out there. Motorcycles are smaller vehicles in most cases, and they’re easy to look by.”
Garrett said motorcycle accidents happen in every county, but they are less common in the Upper Cumberland.
“Unfortunately, normally, if there is a motorcycle accident, the chances of the severity of the crash going up is there,” Garrett said. “There’s just not that protection surrounding you like there would be in a conventional automobile.”
