Awareness crucial in motorcycle safety

  • Published
  • By Mitch Shaw
  • 75th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah (AFPN) --  The thrill of motorcycle riding is one that many Americans will experience during these 101 critical days of summer.

With gas prices and temperatures rising, many people feel that now is the perfect time to get on their bikes. But before doing so, motorcyclists should consider a few things before heading out on the road. While motorcycle riding can indeed be a thrill, the inherent risks that go with it make it one of the more dangerous modes of transportation.

"There are a lot of things that can go wrong on the motorcycle," said Allan Woods, program manager for Motorcycle Safety with the Ogden Air Logistics Center Safety Office. "A lot of times, safety on a motorcycle depends on the elements. Rain, dirt, sand or rocks on the road can come up real fast and affect someone riding on a motorcycle. Unexpected road hazards are responsible for a lot of motorcycle accidents."

Another disadvantage of motorcycles is they are smaller than cars and in turn, less visible on the road, Mr. Woods said.

"Motorcycles can also be very hard to see, and a lot of times people pull out in front of them because they just don't see them," Mr. Woods said. "Motorcyclists need to make themselves seen. They should wear loud, contrasting colors, and reflectors on the helmet and upper body. They should also wear the proper safety equipment 100 percent of the time."

In April, Capt. Steven Norris of the 421st Fighter Squadron was involved in an accident on his motorcycle outside the base. Captain Norris was struck by a van and thrown from his motorcycle into oncoming traffic. He was wearing all the proper protective gear and only suffered a torn shoulder ligament.

"You should wear all of your personal protective equipment all the time," Captain Norris said. "Buy the good stuff, too, because how much is your brain worth?"

Captain Norris also stressed the concept of road awareness.

"You should assume all cars are trying to kill you," Captain Norris said. "Take your time and always drive defensively."

The responsibility for road awareness does not fall solely into the hands of the motorcyclist; automobile drivers also need to pay attention and be watchful.

"When you have a motorcycle crash involving a car, there are no fender benders. Someone is either seriously hurt or dead," said Gerald Wilcox, vice president of the Hill Riders Association. "That's why it's so important that people watch out for motorcycles."