Wash a windshield and save a life? It might just happen. The 2006 annual MN “Washout” gets underway in May in conjunction with Motorcycle Awareness Month. In MN car drivers go six months without seeing motorcycles on the road, and then suddenly—riders are out there again. So this unique program was created to help raise driver awareness.

Motorcycle riders offer free windshield washes to help road users “Start Seeing Motorcyclists.” Motorcycle clubs, chapters, and organizations team up at roadside rest areas across the state, vigorously scrubbing windshields clean and giving out motorcycle safety information and bumper stickers. Known as the “Washout,” this event happens every year at the onset of motorcycle season—weekends during the month of May. From the MN motorcycle safety center.

Our northwest winters are not as severe but there there is still an appreciable period of time when there is nary a rider on the roads. Then comes sunny skies and we are back in droves. So this is a program that could serve us well in the northwest.

If you are a member of a club or MRO why not bring this idea up to the membership. Contact other organizations and try to get a cooperative effort going. And don’t forget us unaffiliated riders. I for one would be happy to participate.