A west Michigan man was killed early Tuesday morning when he struck a tree that had been felled by Monday’s powerful storms. According to the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department, construction barrels warning motorists of the obstacle had been removed sometime Monday night. The motorcyclist had been wearing a helmet and traveling at a prudent speed, but was apparently unable to avoid hitting the tree after cresting a hill.

This fatal crash leaves many questions unanswered. Most importantly, why were the construction barrels removed while the obstacle remained in the road? By all accounts, the victim did everything a motorcyclist should do: he was wearing a helmet and obeying the speed limit. While the storm system that moved through lower Michigan earlier this week was responsible for many downed trees and power lines, this particular hazard had been identified and a barrier set up.

All fatal accidents are tragedies. This one seems particularly awful because potentially life-saving warnings had been inexplicably removed from the area prior to the crash.

A west Michigan man was killed early Tuesday morning when he struck a tree that had been felled by Monday’s powerful storms. According to the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department, construction barrels warning motorists of the obstacle had been removed sometime Monday night. The motorcyclist had been wearing a helmet and traveling at a prudent speed, but was apparently unable to avoid hitting the tree after cresting a hill.

This fatal crash leaves many questions unanswered. Most importantly, why were the construction barrels removed while the obstacle remained in the road? By all accounts, the victim did everything a motorcyclist should do: he was wearing a helmet and obeying the speed limit. While the storm system that moved through lower Michigan earlier this week was responsible for many downed trees and power lines, this particular hazard had been identified and a barrier set up.

All fatal accidents are tragedies. This one seems particularly awful because potentially life-saving warnings had been inexplicably removed from the area prior to the crash.

A west Michigan man was killed early Tuesday morning when he struck a tree that had been felled by Monday’s powerful storms. According to the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department, construction barrels warning motorists of the obstacle had been removed sometime Monday night. The motorcyclist had been wearing a helmet and traveling at a prudent speed, but was apparently unable to avoid hitting the tree after cresting a hill.

This fatal crash leaves many questions unanswered. Most importantly, why were the construction barrels removed while the obstacle remained in the road? By all accounts, the victim did everything a motorcyclist should do: he was wearing a helmet and obeying the speed limit. While the storm system that moved through lower Michigan earlier this week was responsible for many downed trees and power lines, this particular hazard had been identified and a barrier set up.

All fatal accidents are tragedies. This one seems particularly awful because potentially life-saving warnings had been inexplicably removed from the area prior to the crash.

As the weather continues to improve, more and more motorcycles are taking to the road. In order to keep this hobby safe and enjoyable for everyone, you should take a few moments to review some motorcycle safety tips.

Motorcyclists, you should carefully inspect your bike before traveling. Drive defensively and motor vehicle drivers can't or don't see you. Although it seems like common sense, you should become an endorsed rider and familiarize yourself with the applicable laws. And because the bike itself doesn't offer much protection, wear protective gear, including a helmet, every time you ride.

Motor vehicle drivers, you are also responsible for the safety of motorcycle enthusiasts. Motorcycles are relatively small and can be concealed in your blind spots. They also accelerate quickly compared to other vehicles, so be sure to give yourself extra time before pulling out in front of one. Often, you will be able to hear a motorcycle before you actually see it, so music volume should be kept in check.

Sadly, May and June have seen a number of serious motorcycle accidents in Michigan. At least two of these incidents have been fatal, though they do not necessarily represent ordinary scenarios. Still, these crashes demonstrate exactly how small the margin of error is for a motorcyclist.

As the weather continues to improve, more and more motorcycles are taking to the road. In order to keep this hobby safe and enjoyable for everyone, you should take a few moments to review some motorcycle safety tips.

Motorcyclists, you should carefully inspect your bike before traveling. Drive defensively and motor vehicle drivers can't or don't see you. Although it seems like common sense, you should become an endorsed rider and familiarize yourself with the applicable laws. And because the bike itself doesn't offer much protection, wear protective gear, including a helmet, every time you ride.

Motor vehicle drivers, you are also responsible for the safety of motorcycle enthusiasts. Motorcycles are relatively small and can be concealed in your blind spots. They also accelerate quickly compared to other vehicles, so be sure to give yourself extra time before pulling out in front of one. Often, you will be able to hear a motorcycle before you actually see it, so music volume should be kept in check.

Sadly, May and June have seen a number of serious motorcycle accidents in Michigan. At least two of these incidents have been fatal, though they do not necessarily represent ordinary scenarios. Still, these crashes demonstrate exactly how small the margin of error is for a motorcyclist.