New York State Executive Chamber | Governor Eliot Spitzer

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Proclamation

Whereas, the arrival of warm weather brings the return of motorcycles to New York's roads and, over the years, the State has seen a steady rise in the number of motorcycles and motorcyclists - the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) registers more than 289,096 motorcycles annually and has issued more than 597,782 motorcycle licenses as motorcycling continues to grow in popularity; and

Whereas, the motorcycle effectively reduces fuel consumption and contributes to the lessening of traffic and parking congestion, and is an increasingly popular means of transportation for commuting, as well as for touring and recreation; and

Whereas, New York is a "motorcycle friendly" state with 1,493 miles of Interstate Highway that offer access to scenic rural areas as well as suburban and metropolitan areas, and every region of New York has touring routes and destinations where events for motorcycle enthusiasts are held, such as the Americade Touring Rally in Lake George, which annually attracts tens of thousands of motorcyclists; and

Whereas, motorcycles pose unique situations for their riders and other motorists because they are less stable and more difficult to see in traffic, and because their riders are exposed to all weather conditions; motorists should be aware of two-wheeled vehicles and recognize a rider's right to a full traffic lane, and use caution in judging the speed and distance of an oncoming motorcycle, especially at intersections and while turning; and

Whereas, the Department of Motor Vehicles supports a motorcycle safety program and provides the motorcycle road test waiver as well as license point and insurance reduction benefits to those who successfully complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's beginning rider course; the recommended training is offered through the Motorcycle Association of New York State, Inc., at training sites across the state and is available by calling 1-888-4NY-RIDE; and

Whereas, New York emphasizes the need to "Watch for Motorcycles" at the start of the riding season by participating in a national campaign called "Motorcycle Awareness and You" (MAY), making it an appropriate time to remind all motorists to be more aware of motorcyclists and to respect their right to safely ride on our highways in this month and throughout the riding season;

Now, Therefore, I, Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby recognize May 2007 as Motorcycle Awareness and You Month in the Empire State.

Given under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twenty-fifth day of April in the year two thousand seven.

Eliot Spitzer, Governor

Richard Baum, Secretary to the Governor