The number of motorcycle deaths so far this year has already exceeded the death total from last year and has the Minnesota Department of Public Safety calling for more awareness and training, WCCO reports. There have been 47 motorcycle deaths this year compared to 42 in 2011.

DPS tells WCCO that autumn brings more danger with deer, darker hours and farm equipment on the roadways.

The most recent fatality happened Wednesday night on Highway 10 north of Sauk Rapids, the St. Cloud Times says. A St. Cloud man died after the motorcycle he was riding rear-ended a tractor pulling a mounted mower blade.

The Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center tells KARE 11 that motorcycle ridership is at an all-time high in the state with nearly a quarter million registered motorcycles and nearly a half million licensed riders. The center says riders should pay attention, drive at safe speeds and always wear protective gear.