Louisiana State Police News V1
LSP Article Full View
| id |
cleanReleaseDate |
troopName |
title |
| 8603 |
2011-05-22 |
Troop L |
Troopers urge Safety following Third Motorcycle Fatality in a Week |
LOUISIANA STATE POLICE
COURTESY LOYALTY SERVICE
Colonel Michael D. Edmonson, Superintendent
TROOP L NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 22nd, 2011
Troopers urge Safety following Third
Motorcycle Fatality in a Week
Following the third motorcycle crash in less than a week across the Troop L area with several additional crashes across the state, Troopers urge safe riding practices to riders and all motorists to help keep motorcyclists safe.
The most recent crash occurred this morning at 10:15 am on LA 440 approximately 2 miles west of the Tangipahoa Parish line in St. Helena Parish. The crash occurred as Donald Burch Sr. (W/M age 72) was riding his 2005 Yamaha motorcycle west on LA 440. As Burch proceeded west, he failed to negotiate a left curve in the roadway and ran off road to the right. Upon leaving the roadway, the Yamaha motorcycle continued down a steep grass embankment ejecting Burch before coming to rest in a ditch. Burch was pronounced dead at the scene by the St. Helena Parish Coroner’s Office. He was wearing a DOT approved helmet at the time of the crash and impairment is not suspected.
The Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists to safely "share the road" with motorcycles and to be extra alert to help keep motorcyclists safe. In addition, riders should follow these safety guidelines to increase awareness and have a safe riding experience. Be visible:
• Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.
• Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
• Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
• Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have.
• Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
• If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.
Dress for safety:
• Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.
• Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet.
• Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
• Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
• Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.
Apply effective mental strategies:
• Constantly search the road for changing conditions. Be aware of other traffic, road surfaces and debris.
• Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions.
• Give other motorists time and space to respond to you.
• Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.
• Watch for turning vehicles.
• Signal your next move in advance.
• Avoid weaving between lanes.
• Don't ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Know and follow the rules of the road and stick to the speed limit.
RIDE LIKE YOU ARE INVISIBLE TO OTHER MOTORISTS!!!!
Know your bike and how to use it:
• Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces.
• Get formal training and take refresher courses:
The Louisiana State Police offers a civilian Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Course. The department offers both a Basic Motorcycle Rider Course and an Advanced Rider Course. More information can be found at www.LSP.org under “Training” or you can call 225-925-6113 ext 224.
Contact Information:
TFC Nick Manale
Public Affairs Unit Troop L
Louisiana State Police
Office: (985) 893-6250
Nicholas.Manale@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org
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