Welcome to Skagit County

September 24th, 2008


Motorcycle safety stressed and enforced during this years Oyster Run

The 27th annual Oyster Run is set to kick off in Anacortes this Sunday September 28th. Extra patrols are being funded by a Washington State Traffic Safety Commission grant, allowing local City and County police agencies in Snohomish, Skagit and Whatcom counties along with the WSP to watch for speed, aggressive driving, DUI, and lane travel violations. Two WSP aircraft, equipped with the FLIR camera system, will be watching for traffic violations from the air during the day and nighttime. We want motorists keep special watch for motorcycles. When stopping at stop signs, or entering traffic, check both ways before proceeding. Motorcycles are expected to travel from all over the state to this event.

The WSP wants motorcyclists to be properly trained, always ride with their headlights on, and wear bright clothing and proper safety equipment, including a DOT-certified helmet. They also want to remind riders to have the proper motorcycle endorsement. As of July 22, 2007, officers may impound motorcycles being operated by unendorsed riders.

Motorcycle collision data shows that approximately 60% of motorcycle fatalities are single-vehicle incidents, with the most common causes being excessive speed, impaired driving, and the inability to stay in the lane of travel. "With the increased number of motorcyclists on the road comes the potential for more motorcycle collisions," advises Captain Jim Lever.