Many Pittsburgh area residents enjoy riding motorcycles both for transportation as well as fun. While the use of motorcycles is widespread, and becoming even more so throughout the state, it is important to remember the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be devastating.

Motorcyclists throughout the nation may be aware that May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Accordingly, states throughout the nation are recognizing the event in different ways. Pennsylvania is no exception. In recognition of the national campaign, Governor Tom Corbett recently signed a proclamation designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in the state of Pennsylvania.

This proclamation is not the only thing the state is doing to try to make things safer for motorcyclists on Pennsylvania state roads. It also has an interactive website geared toward the riders of motorcycles called Live Free Ride Alive. In addition to safety tips, it provides visitors with the opportunity to share stories about riding. The "Be One Less" pledge can also be accessed there.

Focusing on motorcycle safety is important for the state. This is because the number of motorcyclists licensed by the state increased by 8,500 in 2011. In addition, 5,600 additional motorcycles were registered.

Last year a total of 3,600 motorcycle accidents occurred in the state. Of that number, 199 deaths occurred. While these numbers actually reflect a decrease from the previous year, most would agree they are still too high. Accordingly, PennDOT is urging everyone on the road, motorcycle riders and car drivers alike, to share the road and take the steps necessary to stay safe.

Source: The Sacramento Bee, "May Declared Motorcycle Safety Month by Governor Corbett," Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, May 4, 2012