HOLLAND (WTHC-AM/FM) — Today is National Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Day, but the day comes with a challenge for people traveling by car to watch out for motorcycles.
Between 2013 and 2017, more than 7,700 motorcycle-vehicle crashes happened in Michigan. Many drivers mistakenly believe most crashes with motorcyclists happen on highways.
In reality, 84 percent of motorcycle-vehicle crashes happen on city streets, not highways. And drivers? Most of these crashes happen when a vehicle driver is turning left.
Some areas have higher motorcycle-vehicle crash rates than others — downtown Grand Rapids is one hot spot, but the Unity Bridge is another. Knowing where crashes are most-likely to happen can reduce the risk of crashing, according to police.
The state has created an interactive map showing crashes over a four-year period — with downloadable safety tips.