LYNCHBURG, Tenn. — The diversity of Tennessee’s geography from the Smoky Mountains in the east to the Mississippi delta lands in the west encourages motorcyclists, and motorists alike, to travel our state. Along with these scenic opportunities, the cultural, historical, social, and entertainment opportunities right here in southern, middle Tennessee attracts thousands of motorcyclist each summer.
Metro Moore County Sheriff’s Office will partner with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office to promote Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month during the month of May. Agencies participate by providing information and increasing awareness in their communities about the importance of sharing the road and looking twice for motorcyclists.
“Motorcyclists will be out in force as the weather gets warmer, which is why it is the perfect time for us to remind the community about the vulnerability of motorcycle riders,” said Metro Moore County Sheriff’s Department Captain Shane Taylor. “All motorists need to know how to anticipate and respond to motorcyclists to avoid crashes.”
Moore County has had 16 motorcycle crashes since 2020, and an overall motorcycle crash rating of 8.92 percent in the state. With several motorcycle enthusiast stores around the Lynchburg Square and as the home of The Jack Daniel Distillery, hundreds of riders from across the U.S. will flock to our tiny town over the summer.
The state campaign reminds drivers that motorcycles enjoy an equal right to local roads. State officials also remind drivers that motorcycle signals are non-cancelling on most bikes – meaning they can accidentally get left on even if the rider does not intend to make a turn. Never drive around a bike just because their turn signal indicates they are going the opposite direction. Automobile drivers should also double check mirrors and blind spots for motorcyclists and allow them ample room for emergency stops.
To learn more about the state campaign, visit the Tennessee Highway Safety Office website. •
{The Lynchburg Times is an independently-owned, community newspaper located in Lynchburg, Tennessee the home of The Jack Daniel Distillery. We tells the stories of local folks here in Lynchburg as well as those happening across Tennessee and the American South that we believe may be of interest to our readers. Like what we’re doing? You can support us for just $5 per month by following this link.}