Drive safe during Bike Week

SANDUSKY — Local law enforcement is preparing for a massive increase coinciding with the highly anticipated Ohio Bike Week. Along with the recent start of the Cedar Point season, the annual 10-day biking event will be hosted in downtown Sandusky from May 26 to June 4, with thousands expected to visit the Sandusky area. Two local law enforcement officials, Erie County Sheriff Paul Sigsworth and Sandusky police Chief Jared Oliver, urge motorists and riders to travel safely and be courteous to others on the roadway. "This is a busy time of year for our area, and we want to ensure everyone can have fun safely," Sigsworth said. Sigsworth recommends that bikers make their presence known on the road by wearing bright reflective clothing, making it easier for drivers to see passing or oncoming motorcycles. Other recommendations include wearing protective gear like a helmet and specialty clothing, as it dramatically reduces the chances of life-threatening injuries in the event of a crash. "It could be life-threatening. Motorcycles simply don't have as many safety mechanisms as a car," Oliver said. Both Sigsworth and Oliver ask that drivers actively look at their surroundings, as it is easy to miss a motorcycle on the road due to its size. Additionally, vegetation like crops and high weeds can also obscure a driver's view of motorcycles and another common culprit are utility poles and parked cars. "Motorcycles, especially at night, can sometimes be easy to miss due to their size and the rate of speed they can go," Oliver said. "More often than not, most crashes involving motorcycles result in drivers not yielding the right of way." Motorcycle safety tips Here's some additional guidance from Sigsworth: Do not operate any vehicle or motorcycle under the influence of drugs and alcohol. New motorcycle riders are encouraged to take a motorcycle safety class. All motorists must obey traffic laws on the roadway. Motorcyclists should take note and dress appropriately for the weather. Never ride in inclement weather. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and obey the speed limit. Make yourself known on the roadway, as this can reduce the risk of an accident.