The number of motorcyclists killed on Tennessee highways have gone up.
So far this year, 26 motorcyclists have been killed. That's five more than this time last year. Over the weekend Robert Mardres, Junior and his girlfriend, Pamela Passmore, were killed.
The two were riding along Highway 231 near the Wilson-Rutherford County line when a car crossed into oncoming traffic, hitting and killing the couple. They were wearing helmets.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol said an 18-year-old was driving the car. He was allegedly under the influence of drugs but charges have yet to be filed.
Since those deaths, the Tennessee Highway Patrol is working with TDOT. Signs along the interstate urge drivers to look twice for motorcycles.
It's unclear why motorcycle deaths are on the rise.
Sgt. Travis Plotzer with THP said the warmer weather may be to blame. Plotzer also blamed distracted driving for the deaths.
