Out of subscription: drive safely at all times

If you drive on the roads of Pennsylvania, or on any roads, for that matter, you will probably encounter a variety of drivers – fast drivers, drivers in a hurry, drivers moving in lanes, even too slow drivers.

And you will no doubt encounter rude drivers – they are.

So when PennDOT and AAA Mid-Atlantic warn us about safe driving on the upcoming Remembrance Day weekend, we need to follow their advice – not just this weekend, but all the time.

Due to rising temperatures and the number of motorcycles moving on Pennsylvania roads, the Wolff administration this week reminded drivers and motorcyclists to share the road, follow traffic rules and keep an eye on one throughout the riding season.

At the time, it was called “general courtesy.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Pennsylvania Police and Motorcycle Safety Advocates have joined forces to promote and encourage the safe operation of all vehicles. Gov. Tom Wolfe has declared Pennsylvania May the month of motorcycle safety.

“As more and more people enjoy the fun and excitement of motorcycles, it is in the interest of both motorcyclists and motorists to safely share the road,” said PennDOT Secretary Yasmin Hramyan. “Staying up to date while driving or driving, complying with speed limits and being responsible will help reduce the number of deaths and injuries resulting from unnecessary accidents.”

• In 2021, there were 3,578 motorcycle accidents on the roads of Pennsylvania, killing 226 people.

• Accidents increased by more than 150 from 3404 in 2020, while the death toll also increased from 217 in 2020.

“We encourage riders to slow down, drive in defense and remember not to drink and drive to keep yourself upright and ready for the next ride,” said Major Robert Krol, director of the Pennsylvania Police Patrol Bureau. “Enrolling in a free safety course can help motorcycle enthusiasts of all skill levels refresh their skills or even learn some new techniques.”

Some safety tips that motorists should keep in mind when sharing a road with motorcycles include:

• Watch out for motorcycles. Keep in mind that motorcycles are small and hard to see. Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and at intersections.

• Allow more of the following distance: Leave at least four seconds of distance between the motorcycle and your car.

• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.

Respect the motorcycle as a full-size vehicle with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the roadway.

• Allow the rider to the full width of the lane, as the rider needs space to maneuver safely in all road conditions.

• Never drive a car with damage.

And PennDOT says motorcyclists can make a contribution to avoid accidents by following a few simple safety tips:

• Be noticed by wearing reflective clothing, and stick reflective tape on protective clothing and motorcycle. Also wear face or eye protection and an approved DOT helmet.

• Use common sense by being sober, obeying all speed limits and giving enough time to react to potentially dangerous situations.

• Know your motorcycle and check before you ride.

• Practice safe riding techniques and know how to drive your motorcycle in adverse road and weather conditions.

AAA: Travel through the area will increase

on the weekend before Remembrance Day

The AAA predicts that more than 43,000 residents of the Wilkes-Barre district will walk 50 miles or more on Remembrance Day weekend, and as usual, the vast majority will travel to their destination, although air travel and other modes of transport have both grown significantly since last year.

More than 90% of travelers – or almost 40,000 residents of the Wilkes-Barre district – will set off for the holiday, which is almost 5% more than last year, despite record gas prices. While the increase in road travel is noticeable given the pain of the pump, the sharp jump in air travel and other transportation suggests that gas prices may motivate some travelers to consider driving alternatives.

“Roads will be as congested as they were before the Pandemic Day, but airports, train stations and bus depots will also be very busy, so travelers need to plan accordingly,” said Jana Tydwell, a spokeswoman for AAA Mid-Atlantic. .

More time to travel on these busy roads – be safe