3 days ago
Local riders raise awareness for motorcycle safety
MATTYDALE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, which is also prime time for motorcyclists in central New York.
Syracuse Police say the likelihood of a motorcycle crash happening increases around May each year. Sgt. Blake says motorcycle crashes happen in the city every year, and at least one person dies as a result.
'If operated improperly, motorcycles can be dangerous. We have to remember to be very responsible, not only when we're on the motorcycle but also on the road and observing folks that are riding motorcycles,' said Syracuse Police Sgt. Tom Blake. 'It is both the rider's responsibility and the responsibility of those sharing the road with motorcycles as well to make sure everyone is being safe.'
Members of Hades Hounds LEMC in Syracuse are also raising awareness about motorcycle safety.
'We try to keep our bikes up to par, inspected all the new parts and everything and most motorcyclists, except maybe some of the crotch rocket guys, are pretty safety conscious. We want to live another day,' said Lawrence Barnes, a member of Hades Hounds.
Barnes, an 82-year-old veteran, said he's been riding his motorcycle since 1996. Despite some of the dangers that come with motorcycling, Barnes doesn't plan on stopping anytime soon.
'We try to keep our bikes up to par, inspected all the new parts and everything and most motorcyclists, except maybe some of the crotch rocket guys, are pretty safety conscious. We want to live another day,' said Barnes.
Making safety their first priority.
'As long as you maintain your bike, do proper maintenance on your bike, that's pretty much where safety comes in,' said Kurt Sorensen, founder of Hades Hounds LEMC.
Hades Hounds says wearing a motorcycle helmet that's DOT approved isn't just a law in New York state. But it can also save your life.
'Other states have options where you can ride with a helmet and without a helmet. If I had my choice, I would wear a helmet, just simply because you don't get a second chance,' said Sorensen.
'Keep in mind, about 50 percent of the fatalities occur with people who are not wearing motorcycle helmets,' said Blake.
More motorcycle safety tips can be found here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
