Motorcycle Accident Prompts Spring Safety Concerns
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DULUTH - Spring fever has hit the Northland and motorcycles are starting to hit the streets.
In 2013, 60 people were killed in motorcycle accidents in Minnesota.
So far in 2014, there has been one death.
Wednesday evening, Duluth Police responded to their first motorcycle incident of the season.
Just before 6:00 p.m., a 22-year-old man was driving his motorcycle on 7th Avenue East and 11th Street.
Neighbors say he took the corner too fast, and flew into the snow bank.
He was taken to St. Luke's Hospital with non-life threatening injuries, according to police.
The exact cause of the crash is under investigation.
While drivers are itching to get their bikes out, it's important to remember the roads are still filled with sand, dirt, and potholes making it dangerous for bikers.
"You just want to be aware,” said Tony Bianchi of RJ Sport & Cycle. “Being spring, a lot of drivers aren't used to seeing the bikes on the road, so they're not paying attention most of the time."
The professionals say if you do have your motorcycle out this early, you should wear proper gear like a jacket, protective eye wear, and a helmet.
The safest time to ride is after street sweepers go through town and pot holes are filled which is usually by May.