THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2005

THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2005

Our View

Manic over

motorcycles

This past weekend saw a record number of motorcycle accidents in Rappahannock County resulting in several injuries and one fatality. Local fire and rescue squads acted quickly in transporting injured riders to neighboring hospitals or arranging for them to be airlifted. Folks heard helicopters, traffic was stopped, troopers, were busy and our sheriff is not only alarmed but distraught. None of the riders were from Rappahannock County. The accident involving three motorcycles was a group from Maryland. It was a miracle really that not , all ten were involved as once the first one hit the truck it caused a domino effect for the next ones in fine. Residents along Crest Hill Road have a grim reminder. Part of the bridge over Hickman’s run is gone now with only yellow ribbons to remind them that guard rails were once in place. Having motorcyclists injured on Rappahannock’s scenic roads could send a red flag to the Virginia Department of Transportation that even more safety features should be considered - what would they be? Widening once one-lane roads? More signs to slow down? More paving? The royal blue helmet and downed bike lying along US 211 are the last vision for friends of the 28-year-old that died after flying off his motorcycle. In all these incidences, officials have agreed that ‘loss of control’ was the main ingredient. Too much bike and too little experience. This editor rode a motorcycle years ago - another life. Trust me - I don’t need any ‘motorcycle mama’ jokes. My experience was short and not so sweet. When the Harley hit the ground, so did I. With several more weeks of summer ahead, there will undoubtedly be more motorcycle riders testing the roads of Rappahannock. Some will be veteran riders, others not. Be mindful of them. Hopefully they will ride in and out again safely.