Todie's Wild Ride- All Drivers Can Help!

This coin is being released to help raise awareness of bikes on the roads.</font.

Motorcycle fatalities now account for 11% of total road fatalities and have increased each year from a low of 2,116 in 1997 to 4,810 in 2006.

Our message to all drivers is:
Make this the first year in recent years when motorcycle fatalities do NOT increase. Help to share in the responsibility and do your part by safely 'Sharing the Road' with motorcycles. If you can, help us raise motorcycle awareness by releasing a coin of your own!

All drivers can help reduce crashes by paying close attention to the following:

Watch for Motorcycles! The majority of drivers involved in a mishap with a rider stated that they never saw the motorcycle; or when they did see it or the rider, it was too late (basically, they collided with each other). Drivers should expect to see motorcycles at any time and search aggressively for them. Remember that a motorcycle's headlight is on all the time--this helps you see them during the day. A motorcycle can easily be hidden behind a car or truck; so it's particularly important to check your mirrors and blind spot before merging or changing lanes, especially in heavy traffic. Also, look for a helmet above, tires below, or a shadow alongside a vehicle that you can't see around. Make sure your view of the road is unobstructed by removing items hanging from a rearview mirror, or the mirror is completely covered by items such as a mini DVD player. Motorcycles are smaller than most cars and SUVs, which can make it difficult to accurately determine the speed of a motorcycle. Always leave adequate room when entering the roadway upon the approach of a motorcycle. Motorcycles are entitled to the same full lane as other vehicles. While it is legal for motorcycles to ride side-by-side, though not advisable, it is illegal for any other vehicle to share a lane with a motorcycle. Be aware that riders will change position within their lane to see and be seen, avoid surface hazards, and to prepare for a turn. Car drivers must never move into the same lane alongside a motorcycle.

This coin is in memory of Todie Phillips of Manitou Beach, MI. He passed away August 12 2008 as a result of a motorcycle accident, he was only 49 years old.