KANSAS CITY, Mo. — One person was critically injured last week when his motorcycle collided with a car trying to merge into the same lane. On Monday afternoon, a motorcyclist lost control near the Interstate 29 and Interstate 35 split and later died.
Kansas City, Mo., police say both riders and drivers need to be more aware of each other as they hit the road.
The long winter and rain-soaked spring have motorcycle riders ready to roll, but police say it usually takes a little while for those driving cars and trucks to get used to sharing the road again.
“Cars aren’t used to the motorcycle traffic in and out of lanes. It’s a good time of year to start being observant and watching lanes before you switch,” said Capt. Donna Greenwell of the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.
But it’s not all on the drivers. Police say those on two wheels need to do their part, too.
“They shouldn’t be riding in blind spots. They should make sure they allow enough distance in case somebody does come over into their lane. They need to be cautious as riders also,” Greenwell said.
Because motorcycles are harder to see, when you do see one coming up behind you, Greenwell suggests you let them make the first move.
“Just kinda wait and see what they’re gonna do and use your turn signals. A lot of people don’t use turn signals. Motorcycles use hand signals a lot.”
Last year in Kansas City, Mo., eight people died in motorcycle accidents. A little more than five months into this year, police have already worked four deadly crashes.
Some caused by the drivers, others by the riders, or a combination of both, so police are urging everyone to keep their eyes open and share the road safely because it’s only going to get busier.
“The warmer it gets and the less rain we get, the more motorcycles you’re gonna see out there.”
Last week’s motorcycle crash remains under investigation. The man on the motorcycle survived, but lost his leg. There is no word on the possibility of tickets or charges as a result of the crash.