HOLLY TOWNSHIP (WWJ) - A pickup truck driver making a turn in Oakland County on Monday morning ended up in a deadly collision with a motorcyclist, state police said.
The Memorial Day incident is prompting authorities to warn other drivers to be on the lookout for motorcyclists as the summer season approaches.
“We all need to share the road together and make sure we remain alert," First Lt. Mike Shaw from the Michigan State Police urged after the fatal crash was reported around 10 a.m. on May 29.
According to Shaw, a 2002 Chevy pickup truck was heading south on Holly Road near Belford in Holly Township when it made a left turn.
The truck hit a motorcyclist, who was not wearing a helmet, state police said. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene when authorities arrived.
The deceased's identity or age was not released. The truck driver, a 66-year-old Novi man, was unhurt in the crash.
Shaw warned drivers to be aware of their surroundings at all times while on the roadway, but especially in the warmer months when more motorcycles are present.
“It is important with summer right around the corner that we look twice for motorcycles," he said.
State police detectives are continuing their investigation into the crash.
According to Michigan.gov, intersections are one of the biggest dangers for motorcyclists and most crashes involving motorcyclists happen when vehicle drivers are turning left.
"Motorcyclists are hard to see and often are overlooked because of their size and profile," state officials said.
As compiled by the state, some safety tips to remember when out of the road are as follows:
84% of motorcycle-vehicle crashes happen on streets, not highways
A common misconception is that most crashes involving motorcyclists and vehicles occur on highways. Data shows that a large majority take place on city streets where a lot of vehicles are in motion.
Always assume motorcyclists are closer than they appear
Their speed and distance are difficult for drivers to judge, especially at intersections. Keep a watchful eye at all times. Look twice at intersections before you turn or pull out.
Avoid Distractions
Keep all devices out of reach while driving so you won’t be tempted to look at them – even when you’re stopped at intersections. Other distractions that can take your attention away from the road? GPS devices, eating, drinking or reaching for an object all can take your eyes and your mind off the road.
Don't rely just on your ears
Many drivers count on hearing motorcycles to be alert of their presence. You can’t always hear motorcycles, especially when they are oncoming. So, practice remaining alert at all times.
Double-check your blind spots
It’s probably no surprise that motorcyclists can get lost in a vehicle’s blind spot. Be extra cautious when merging or changing lanes.
Keep Your Distance
Many motorcyclists slow down by downshifting, which won’t activate the brake light. Allow yourself extra space when you’re following a motorcyclist, particularly on busy city streets.
Know Their Signals
Motorcyclists often use hand signals, similar to bicyclists, to let others know their intentions on the road. A right turn is signaled by a left arm raised, a left turn by the left arm straight out to the side and a stop by the left arm downward.
Look for more tips? Please visit The Michigan Secretary of State’s Office's website for additional information.
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