Area law enforcement to patrol Fall Flood Run this weekend

Motorists are urged to use extra caution this weekend along the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers as thousands of motorcyclists take to the road for the Fall Flood Run. As many as 30,000 riders will be traveling between the Twin Cities and Winona on Saturday.
So far this season, 39 motorcyclists have died on Minnesota roads, compared to 61 rider deaths in 2015. While fatalities are down at this point, riders and motorists are encouraged to continue sharing the road to prevent any more fatalities this year. Riders need to take safety into their own hands and motorists need to look twice for motorcycles.
To ensure a safe riding environment, law enforcement agencies in Dodge County, including the Minnesota State Patrol, local police and county sheriff’s offices, will be out patrolling the area, watching for speeding and impaired driving. 
“Deadly crashes are preventable, and even one fatality is too many,” says Sheriff Scott Rose, “Riders and drivers should be making smart, safe choices on the road. That means traveling at safe speeds, giving each other space and never drinking while riding or driving.”
The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Motorcycle Safety Center offer these safety tips for motorists and motorcyclists:
Motorists
• Watch for motorcycles. Due to the smaller size of motorcycles, their speed and distance is more difficult to judge.
• Always look twice before entering a roadway or changing lanes.
• Give riders room and check blind spots. 
• Pay attention and drive at safe speeds.
Riders 
• Be prepared for inattentive drivers by staying focused on riding and keeping your speed in check. 
• Wear the gear. Motorcyclists are highly encouraged to wear a DOT-approved helmet and brightly colored protective gear for visibility and protection. 
• Don’t drink and ride. One-third of all motorcycle fatalities involve impaired riders.