Chance of motorcycle crashes increases with warmer weather

COLUMBIA. Mo (KMIZ)

Officials said Wednesday -- the day after a deadly motorcycle crash near Columbia -- that the possibility of such crashes will only grow with warm weather.

At least three motorcycle crashes have been reported statewide in the last four days, including one that killed a Columbia man Tuesday on Old Plank Road.

Gale Blomenkamp with the Boone County Fire District said it is important for drivers to pay extra attention and keep an eye out for motorcycles.

"Expect a motorcycle on the roads because it's that time of year. People need to stop slow down, look twice, and make yourself actually look for a motorcycle," Blomenkamp said.

Capt. Brian Leer of the Boone County Sheriff's Office said it is important motorcyclists do not speed and drive recklessly. The sheriff's office investigated the fatal crash on Old Plank Road and said speeding contributed to the accident.

"You combine that with people out enjoying themselves and people driving too fast and unfortunately it's a recipe for disaster," Leer said.

Leer said it is essential that motorcyclists not only wear a helmet and body gear, but also protective footgear. He said deputies have seen serious foot and ankle injuries from people not wearing the right attire when riding a motorcycle.

A law repealing the state's helmet requirement for motorcycle riders went into effect in August. The law states that anyone 26 and older can operate a motorcycle without a helmet.

 "We are seeing a lot of people choose to exercise that freedom and not wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle," Leer said.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says riders who do not wear helmets are 40% more likely to suffer a fatal head injury.