WINONA, Minn. (KWNO)-Safety officials are advising motorists to be ready for increased Motorcycle traffic in the area on Saturday.
They expect thousands of motorcyclists to take to the road for the annual Fall Flood Run. The ride spans from the Twin Cities to Winona and uses roads along the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers.
Authorities from state, county, and local agencies will be conducting extra patrols along the route. They’ll be looking for speeding and impaired driving or riding.
As of Sept. 10, preliminary numbers show 50 motorcyclists have died on Minnesota roads.
“Serious and deadly motorcycle crashes are preventable if riders and motorists do their parts sharing the road,” said Winona County Sheriff Ron Ganrude.“If you’re out driving or riding during this event, look out for each other, and please do everything you can to make sure everyone makes it home safely.
Winona County Health & Human Services, Winona County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Motorcycle Safety Center have tips to keep travelers safe this weekend.
Motorists
- Watch for motorcycles. Due to the smaller size of motorcycles, their speed and distance is more difficult to judge.
- Always look twice before entering a roadway, turning left or changing lanes.
- Give riders room by maintaining a two-second following distance and check blind spots.
- Pay attention and drive at safe speeds, especially on unfamiliar roads.
Riders
- Be prepared for inattentive drivers by staying focused on riding, keeping your speed in check and maintaining a two-second following distance.
- Wear the gear. Motorcyclists are highly encouraged to wear a DOT-approved helmet and brightly colored protective gear for visibility and protection.
- Don’t drink and ride. Every year about one-third of all motorcycle fatalities involve impaired riders.
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