Days into the summer season and motorcycle safety must be on the minds of motorists. Within the last month, a pair of fatal accidents in Erie County have taken place — in the towns of Evans and Collins.

Erie County Sheriff’s Department noted the most recent investigation involving a 23-year-old is under investigation that took place Saturday afternoon in Collins. How unfortunate.

Recent statistics find motorcycles continue to be overrepresented in serious traffic accidents, according to Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data reported that motorcycles represented exactly 3.5% of all registered vehicles but climbed to 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2024. Data from the Institute for Traffic Safety & Research shows that motorcycle injuries rose to 4,681, including 189 riders who lost their lives, statewide in 2024.

“That is why awareness and caution from all motorists are so important. Drivers should always remain alert for motorcycles, especially when changing lanes or making turns,” Kearns said. “Because motorcycles are smaller and can easily disappear into blind spots, taking an extra moment to look twice can save lives. Maintaining a safe following distance is equally important, particularly during poor weather or low-visibility conditions.”

To that point, safety remains a partnership. Some overly ambitious motorcyclists give others a bad name — speeding through traffic while darting between vehicles. It is horrifying to witness.

We must all do our part in using caution when on the roads. We handle winter well due to tough conditions. Don’t let your guard down in warmer weather.