Latest news with #StephaneB.Seck-Birhame
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
IDOT sharing tips for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WMBD) — The Illinois Department of Transportation is teaming up with the Illinois State Police and motorcycle safety advocates during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. They started the 'Start Seeing Motorcycles' campaign to encourage drivers and motorcyclists to safely enjoy Illinois roads together, Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT's bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering, said. 'Don't take risks, always obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits and lane markings, and never drive or ride impaired,' Seck-Birhame said. During the campaign, there will be motorcycle banners and yard signs on display to remind drivers to be alert for motorcyclists. Information from IDOT shows that while motorcycles represent 3% of total vehicle registrations in Illinois, they accounted for nearly 14% of traffic deaths in 2023. 'While there are fewer motorcycles on roads compared to passenger cars, the motorcycle fatality rate for crashes is five times higher than the fatality rate for passenger cars,' said ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen. 'ISP reminds motorcyclists to make an effort to be seen while riding, avoid weaving in and out of traffic, and obey speed limits. ISP also reminds other drivers to watch for motorcyclists who may not be as easily seen, and to give them space.' IDOT shared safety tips for both drivers and motorcyclists. For Drivers: Look twice before changing lanes or merging into traffic, using your mirrors and glancing over your shoulder. Allow an appropriate distance. Allow motorcyclists enough space to maneuver and enough time to adjust if necessary. Traffic, weather and road conditions require motorcyclists to react and maneuver differently than other drivers. Be vigilant. A motorcycle can easily be hidden behind other vehicles. Checking mirrors and blind spots is essential before changing lanes or merging. Use care when driving near a group of motorcyclists. Sharing the road with organized motorcycle groups requires patience and communication. If you need to change lanes or reach an exit, signal your intention early and wait for the riders to create a space. Do not merge between groups or riders unless there is enough space to do so safely. For motorcyclists: Wear DOT-compliant gear that increases visibility in traffic in addition to providing protection in the event of a crash. Use bright colors and retro-reflective strips or decals, especially at night. Over-the-ankle boots, gloves, protective jackets, pants and properly fitted helmets with face shields or protective eyewear are all part of a full-gear package. Use lane positioning to increase your visibility. Ride with your headlight on at all times. It's the law in Illinois. Give yourself space and time to react. Allow room for emergency braking. Make lane changes gradually and expect the unexpected. Ride sober. Motorcycle riding and alcohol don't mix. Drinking slows your reaction time and affects your balance, coordination and vision. Always signal before changing lanes. Avoid weaving between lanes. Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping. More information on the campaign is available here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Yahoo
What to know about police enforcement for St. Patrick's Day
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WMBD) — While a four-leaf clover may be lucky — those who are caught driving under the influence this St. Patrick's Day — will not be. In a post on their Facebook page, the Illinois State Police, along with the Illinois Department of Transportation, said everyone who plans to join in on the festivities of the holiday should make sure they have a sober ride home before going out. 'Don't push your luck this St. Patrick's Day by driving impaired,' said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT's bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. 'Plan ahead for a safe celebration and don't let anyone get behind the wheel if they've been drinking or using drugs. 'Take their keys away and make sure they have a safe ride home. It might be the difference between a memorable celebration or a tragedy that could have easily been avoided by making the right choice.' The post said ISP and local law enforcement agencies will be 'conducting various enforcement operations,' including roadside safety checks, seat belt check zones and dedicated patrols, until March 18. 'These efforts will focus on enforcing DUI laws, seat belt compliance, speeding, distracted driving and other traffic safety violations,' the post said. If you're hosting a party, remember the following information from IDOT: Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served is involved in an impaired driving crash. Make sure all your guests designate their sober drivers in advance or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers. Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages. Keep information on cabs and ride-sharing services handy. Take keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired. As for partygoers, IDOT also has some tips for you to follow: Designate your sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys. Ask a sober friend or family member for a ride, call a cab, take public transportation, use a ride-sharing service or stay where you are until you are sober. Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive impaired. Always buckle up – it is your best defense against an impaired driver. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
