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Newsline audio releases — June 13, 2013

Listed below are MP3 audio files and the text of actualities and wraps associated with WisDOT's Radio Newsline.

Motorcycles make up about seven percent of registered vehicles in Wisconsin, yet account for nearly 17 percent of all traffic fatalities. Greg Patzer, with the DOT’s Bureau of Transportation Safety, explains how a classroom on wheels is educating all motorists about highway safety and sharing the road.

Cut 1: Greg Patzer, Bureau of Transportation Safety (349 KB/22 seconds)

"THE REF is our Transportable High End Rider Education Facility. Now that may sound like a fancy name, but the goal is relatively simple: we want to prevent motorcycle crashes and raise public awareness of motorcycles. And the idea behind THE REF is to provide motorcyclists and non-riders alike with tips on how to share the roadway and avoid motorcycle crashes."

Cut 2: Greg Patzer, Bureau of Transportation Safety (278 KB/18 seconds)

"Feedback from the motoring public as well as motorcyclists has been overwhelmingly positive. Basically speaking, THE REF is a 40-foot mobile classroom. And it includes interactive displays and three training motorcycles that are used for an introductory motorcycle experience."

Cut 3: Wrap with Patzer (1017 KB/65 seconds)

A 40-foot classroom on wheels is traveling Wisconsin this summer, showing up at community events, generating public awareness about motorcycle safety, and helping new or experienced motorcycle drivers become more aware of training opportunities. This is the Wisconsin DOT’s Motorcycle Safety Program Coordinator Greg Patzer.

"THE REF is our Transportable High End Rider Education Facility. Now that may sound like a fancy name, but the goal is relatively simple: we want to prevent motorcycle crashes and raise public awareness of motorcycles. And the idea behind THE REF is to provide motorcyclists and non-riders alike with tips on how to share the roadway and avoid motorcycle crashes."

Made possible through federal funds, THE REF features trained staff, interactive displays and three training motorcycles used for an introductory motorcycle experience. More information about the rider education facility and where it will be appearing can be found on the WisDOT web site. This is Rob Miller reporting.

Teens getting their driver license this summer are likely looking forward to their new freedom, but also face many responsibilities and challenges. Terry Stark with the state Division of Motor Vehicles explains.

Cut 1: Terry Stark, DMV (354 KB/23 seconds)

"They have a tendency to drive too fast and they don’t always recognize or respond to hazards. They’re easily distracted by passengers and electronic devices. That’s why we have a Graduated Driver Licensing law. It restricts the number of passengers new drivers can carry and puts limits on the time of day they can drive — particularly night-time driving."

Cut 2: Terry Stark, DMV (262 KB/17 seconds)

"Teens need time to practice. GDL works by keeping new teen drivers out of high-risk driving situations such as driving at night or with peer passengers while giving them the opportunity to practice and develop driving skills in lower risk situations."

Cut 3: Wrap with Stark (988 KB/63 seconds)

For the new teen driver getting their driver’s license this summer, taking the car to school or work is exciting — but it also carries responsibilities and risks. Nationally, teen drivers are involved in fatal crashes at four times the rate of older drivers. Terry Stark with the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles talks about common challenges younger drivers face.

"They have a tendency to drive too fast and they don’t always recognize or respond to hazards. They’re easily distracted by passengers and electronic devices. That’s why we have a Graduated Driver Licensing law. It restricts the number of passengers new drivers can carry and puts limits on the time of day they can drive — particularly night-time driving."

Stark says the GDL law provides young drivers valuable experience under lower risk driving conditions. Stark adds that parents or guardians play a crucial role in teen safety by enforcing GLD restrictions and stressing the need to abide by traffic laws. This is Rob Miller reporting.

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Last modified: June 13, 2013