Motorcycle Crashes warning

Police urge caution following rash of motorcycle crashes By: Kelly Foreman "Police are warning motorists to be more aware on the road following a rash of wrecks involving motorcycles. Two motorcyclists have died and one was injured in three separate crashes this week. Chester Mastalerz II, 22, of Richmond, was driving a Honda motorcycle on Boggs Lane in Richmond around 2:30 p.m. Monday when he was struck by an oncoming car. John Yellman IV, 22, of Lexington, was driving on the Eastern Bypass when he allegedly ran a red light, striking Mastalerz on the left side, Richmond Police Sgt. Willard Reardon said. Mastalerz suffered several cuts and bruises as well as a possible fractured ankle, Reardon said. He was transported to Pattie A. Clay Regional Medical Center where he was treated for his injuries and released. “Motorcycle riders have to be defensive drivers,” Reardon said. “Motorcycles are smaller and not as visible and people in cars have a tendency not to see them.” It is important for those driving cars to remember that motorcycles are much more maneuverable than vehicles and can switch lanes quickly, Reardon said. “It’s not like having a car in the lane behind you,” he said." Continue Article