Elected officials and members of the law enforcement community joined community members and officials from the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education (“ABATE”) of NY Buffalo-Erie Chapter today to start the motorcycle season with a call for increased safety and awareness. The 31^st annual ABATE Safety and Awareness ride drew dozens of motorcyclists to downtown Buffalo for a police-escorted, awareness-raising run. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, with increased ridership and more bikes on the road.

According to November 2020 data from the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research in Albany, there were 715 motorcyclist fatalities and over 18,600 injury crashes in New York between 2015 and 2010. Motorcyclists aged 21-29 are most likely to be involved in crashes involving injuries and/or fatalities, accounting for nearly 30% of such incidents. Additionally, research shows that in 2019 over 50% of all motorcycle crashes involving fatalities/injuries occurred on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays

Known for their “Watch for Motorcycles” signs, ABATE currently has 25 chapters across New York State dedicated to promoting motorcycle safety, awareness and education. The organization also pursues fair treatment for all motorcyclists, closely monitors proposed motorcycle-impacting legislation, and works for freedom of choice regarding safety equipment. While protecting individuals’ “Right to Ride”, ABATE keeps members educated on all issues affecting motorcyclists.

For more information:

    On ABATE of NY, visit   http://www.abateny.org/  

    On the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, visit  https://www.itsmr.org/

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