RALEIGH, N.C. - The number of people killed in motorcycle accidents in North Carolina has tripled in the last decade.

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Motorcycle Safety Tips

The state Division of Motor Vehicles released figures Monday that show a 200 percent increase in deaths since 1997. Nationally, the number of deaths increased 140 percent.

A record 183 people died in motorcycle accidents statewide last year, compared to 61 in 1997. Officials blame the increase in part on milder weather that extends the riding season.

Motorcycles represent less than 2 percent of registered vehicles in North Carolina but account for almost 12 percent of traffic fatalities. Statewide, the number of motorcycle registrations increased 17 percent.

A state law that took effect this year requires motorcycle riders to wear helmets that meet federal safety standards.

Gov. Mike Easley has proclaimed April 21-25 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Week to remind both motorcyclists and other drivers of the importance of motorcycle safety and sharing the road.

Motorcycles represent 1.96 percent of all registered vehicles in North Carolina, but account for nearly 12 percent of all traffic fatalities, according to DMV. North Carolina has more than 190,000 registered motorcycles and 500,000 licensed drivers who have either a motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle learner's permit.

This week precedes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, which is held in May.

The Governor's Highway Safety Program offers the following tips to motorcyclists and other drivers.

Motorcycles:

• Always wear a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218 helmet. It is the law in North Carolina. A motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury than a helmeted rider.
• Be visible at all times. This includes wearing bright or reflective clothing.

Other drivers:

• Share the road. Motorcyclists have the right to a full lane.
• Stay alert. Be aware that motorcycles can be easily hidden in a car's blind spot; take an extra moment to thoroughly check traffic when changing lanes.
• Keep a safe distance. Allow more following distance behind motorcycles.
• Be cautious. Be aware that turn signals on a motorcycle are not self-canceling, thus some riders sometimes forget to turn them off after a turn or lane change.