Maine Governor Baldacci Declares Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month

May 10, 2007 -- AUGUSTA – Maine Governor John E. Baldacci welcomed the United Bikers of Maine to the Blaine House Thursday morning. The bikers joined the Governor for a tea reception and accepted a proclamation naming May as Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month in Maine.

“It’s not only important for you to ride safe, but also for other motorists to be aware of your presence on the road and for them to drive safely with you in mind as well,” Governor Baldacci said.

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Governor Baldacci, owner of a Harley Davidson, spoke with many of the bikers during the reception about issues important to their group. Also speaking at the reception were Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap; Chief of the Maine State Police Col. Patrick Fleming; Commissioner David Cole from the Department of Transportation; and President of the United Bikers of Maine, Fulton Butler.

The text of the proclamation follows:

WHEREAS, more motorcyclists are again on Maine’s roads this year and the general public should realize the season for motorcycles is beginning; and WHEREAS, the season has begun and we should be mindful to look out for these vehicles and look twice to save lives; and

WHEREAS, the safe operation of a motorcycle requires the use of special skills developed through a combination of training and expertise, the use of good judgment, plus a thorough knowledge of traffic laws and licensing requirements; and

WHEREAS, motorcycles represent 2.8 percent of all registered vehicles and unfortunately account for 6.8 percent of all motor vehicles fatalities,

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOHN E. BALDACCI, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim May, 2007 as

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AND AWARENESS MONTH

throughout the State of Maine, and urge all citizens to recognize this observance and share the road.

Source: Maine Governor