by MATT HUGHES
J-E News Editor
Motorcyclists got a nod from the Webster County Fiscal Court on Monday as magistrates voted unanimously to take part in the “Share the Road” initiative.
County officials will soon be purchasing eleven “Share the Road” signs, which will be posted along various highways near the county lines. Due to state highway regulations, the county road department will be contacting the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet about hanging the signs.
According to www.sharekyroads.com, there are over 94,000 motorcyclists on Kentucky roads today. This initiative is about reminded other motorists to be aware of motorcycle traffic.
They suggest these tips:
•Be Alert for Motorcycles – Actively look for motorcycles while you are driving. Heavy traffic or hidden intersections could reduce your ability to see a motorcycle. Remember they are much smaller than a car, so you must be aware of your surroundings constantly.
•Anticipate Hazards for Motorcycles - Keep in mind the motorcyclist’s point of view. Be prepared to react to poor road conditions, such as debris or oil slicks, railroad tracks or raised manhole covers.
•Always Look Twice for Motorcycles - Motorists need to be especially alert at intersections and when making a left-hand turn. This is where most accidents occur, so be sure to look both ways for motorcycles.
•Share the Road – Remember that motorcyclists are entitled to a full lane, in order to maneuver and avoid road hazards. Give the motorcyclist respect by keeping a safe distance. Sharing the road will save lives.
The new signs are expected to cost the county about $1,100.
During the road request portion of the meeting, magistrate Chad Townsend informed the court that one Webster County resident had recently reached out to him for help.
“Rob Mooney and I met with a gentleman who lives at the corner of Burnt Mill Road and Highway 1340,” Townsend said. “As people turn into Burnt Mill they are turning in closer and closer to his yard. It’s making the road wider and wider.”
Townsend also said that the property owner reported that someone had dumped a load of gravel on his property at that intersection, apparently in an attempt to patch a muddy spot. But, that muddy spot was not part of the road, it was part of the owner’s property.
“I looked at that also,” Judge Jim Townsend said. “It is gradually moving back onto him, But I’m not sure what can be done.”
County Attorney Clint Prow said that if the county were to erect something there to keep traffic out of the property owner’s yard, they could be liable if someone were to hit it.