The Illinois Department of Transportation was joined by Illinois State Police and motorcycle enthusiasts and advocates to launch the latest “Start Seeing Motorcycles” campaign aimed at reducing motorcycle crashes and fatalities in Illinois. To coincide with the effort, Governor Bruce Rauner has proclaimed May as Motorcycle Awareness Month in Illinois for the 32nd consecutive year. National statistics show that approximately three percent of total vehicle registrations are motorcycles, yet motorcycle accidents account for nearly 15 percent of all vehicle fatalities. According to IDOT’s provisional data, there were 928 traffic fatalities in Illinois in 2014. Of those, 118 were motorcyclists. Over the next several months, IDOT and its partners will be reminding all highway users that warmer weather brings out more cycles and stressing the importance of sharing the road. The awareness campaign also urges motorcyclists to follow the rules of the road and make themselves visible. Motorcyclists are strongly encouraged to wear the proper gear, including high-visibility clothing, eye protection, gloves, jackets, pants, boots and a U.S. DOT approved helmet, at all times. To learn more about IDOT’s motorcycle safety program and courses, as well as the state’s motorcycle laws and regulations, statistics, and additional educational materials, visit www.startseeingmotorcycles.org.