DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Bikers are already roaring into Daytona Beach as Bike Week begins on Friday.
Bike Week returns to central Florida March 7! Bring your camera and share with u local today.
Last year's 10-day motorcycle rally generated nearly $75 million for the local economy.
This year's event is expected to bring in 1.5 million visitors.
However, the fun comes to a screeching halt when there is a crash.
Law enforcement and safety organizations are reminding bikers and motorists to look out for each other.
There were 457 motorcycle fatalities in Florida in 2012 -- four of them during Bike Week.
Charlie Wenger rides in a wheelchair rather than on a motorcycle after being critically injured when a vehicle turned in front of him.
"In that accident I lost my leg," said Wenger. "In that I lost my job because I was not able to work and I have other injuries."
The motorcycle ride, on the first day of the event and led by law enforcement, was to promote safety.
Officials want to remind riders that sometimes it's the bikers that are at fault. They too need to be reminded that more than 30 percent of motorcycle fatalities involve drunk bikers.
"We'll be out looking for motorcycles who want to have a good time, but unfortunately have gotten back on the bike after they've been drinking," said Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Kim Montes. "We know that's a deadly combination."
Bike Week kicks off on Friday, and motorists are urged to drive with extra caution to help make this year's event safe.
