NORFOLK, Va. — Virginia's summer is off to a tragic start, as dozens of motorcycle riders have died while traveling across the state's highways.
From Memorial Day to June 4, Virginia State Police (VSP) recorded 25 deaths across the Commonwealth.
Sergeant Jared Vance said this number is only expected to go up.
"Unfortunately a lot of riders garage their motorcycles over the winter time and as spring comes up they take their motorcycles out of the garage and just go riding," explained Vance. "It's definitely not the best practice."
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, motorcycle riders are overrepresented in fatal crashes as they make up 15% of all fatal crashes.
Vance said there is typically a spike in fatal crashes, especially for motorcyclists, as people anticipate the nicer weather and sometimes do not make the correct preparations.
"People want to go fast, they want to do twisty roads, and sometimes that is a recipe for disaster when you have not been riding, you have not been checking your equipment properly," said Vance.
VSP holds 'Ride 2 Save Lives' motorcycle assessment training across the state to help motorcycle riders navigate the road, and learn best safety practices. Vance said these classes are free, are encouraged for all riders and are held throughout the Commonwealth. For those looking to sign up, you can find more information on VSP's website.
