Now that the weather is getting nicer you can expect to see more motorcyclists on the road.

Motorcyclist fatalities have steadily increased during the past decade. That’s why the Snohomish County DUI and Target Zero Traffic Safety Task Force joined with federal, state and local highway safety, law enforcement, and motorcycle organizations in proclaiming May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.”

All drivers are reminded to share the road with motorcycles and to be extra alert to help keep motorcyclists safe. At the same time, motorcyclists are reminded to make themselves visible to drivers.

“Motorcyclists have responsibilities, too,” Lynnwood Police Motor Sergeant Wayne Davis said. “They should follow the rules of the road, be alert to other drivers, never ride while impaired or distracted, and always wear a Department of Transportation-compliant helmet and other protective gear.”

Between 2004 and 2008, there were 48 motorcycle fatalities in Snohomish County and 820 injury accidents. More than half of all Washington state motorcycle rider fatalities occur in King, Pierce and Snohomish Counties. The majority of riders killed are older than 40. In 2009, there were 11 motorcycle fatalities, up from eight in 2008.