Warmer weather means more teen drivers, motorcyclists on the road

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — As the weather gets warmer and we’re starting to see the sunset later in the evening, many are eager to hit the roads — including teen drivers and motorcyclists.

Law enforcement and safety officials are reminding drivers to be aware, watch for motorcycles and put their phones down.

According to Ohio Traffic Safety, distracted driving has dropped 8% in the last year. Now that warmer temperatures and motorcycle season are here, officials want that number to continue to decline.

“If you see them beginning to pull out, make sure that they see you, make sure that you’re paying attention to them and just give them the space,” said Sgt. Gordon Cairns.

May symbolizes youth and motorcycle driving safety. So far this year, Dayton police say there have been 27 fatal motorcycle crashes across Ohio.

Officials say one of the biggest problems is that drivers just don’t see motorcycles on the road.

“A motorcycle will stop a lot faster than a car. So if you’re following too close to a motorcycle and they have to employ their brakes, they’re going to stop a lot faster than that car or truck, can potentially cause an accident,” said Sgt. Cairns.

Summer is almost here and many schools will be out for summer in just a few weeks, and more teens will be on the roads.

Those teenagers are more likely to be in a crash than adults for many reasons. The number one reason is experience.

“Training is super important to help prepare teens for the realities of the road out there to be safe. And it also gives teenagers really good experience with driving. We know safer driving just comes with more experience,” said Judy Converse, spokeswoman for the Ohio Traffic Safety Office.

Seatbelts are also crucial for safety on the roads. Officials are reminding everyone to buckle up, slow down, and put down all distractions.

“Eliminate distractions behind the wheel, you know, obeying the speed limit because we know the higher the speed, the higher the risk with being involved in a crash,” said Converse.

For more information on driving classes and registration, visit the Ohio Traffic Safety Office’s website .

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