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Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day proposed for Milwaukee
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day proposed for Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Community activists are advocating for a "Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day" and have taken the issue straight to the Milwaukee Common Council's Public Safety Committee.
On June 30th, Vinencia Dawson was on her motorcycle when she was hit and killed. Since then, her sister has been determined to help save the lives of others.
"We came here to support one another in honor of my sister and all the fallen riders -- to have them pass the Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day," Vinetta Dawson said.
Vinetta Dawson and other activists are circulating petitions in support of establishing a Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day. So far, they have more than 2,000 signatures from those who want to encourage drivers of all vehicles to share the road with one another.
"Trying to keep everyone safe and we want everyone to be aware of their surroundings when they're driving," Vinetta Dawson said.
After a year of crashes and deaths, last week, Dawson addressed the Common Council's Public Safety Committee in tears, and made her heartfelt plea. Committee members were very receptive.
"The riding season begins in early May and that is when a spike in accidents surrounding motorcycle drivers occur," Alderwoman Milele Coggs said.
Coggs says as the riding season begins, so will education.
"Educate both motorcycle riders and those who drive in cars about how to share the road together. Given that Harley-Davidson has its headquarters here in Milwaukee, it makes perfect sense that we be the leaders in championing the issue of motorcycle safety awareness," Coggs said.
During the Public Safety Committee meeting before the Common Council, there was a unanimous approval for there to be a Motorcycle Safety Awareness Day in the city of Milwaukee. It must now be approved by the full Common Council.