11th Wing Safety Office - Ridin' safely

The strong appeal of motorcycles as a mode of transportation, a means of recreation, and even a way of life, are apparent as more than 4 million motorcycles are registered in the United States. However, there are several inherent dangers posed to motorcyclists.

Unlike an automobile or truck, a motorcycle offers no protection to its rider during a crash.

In fact, more than 80 percent of reported motorcycle accidents result in injury or death, compared with 20 percent for automobiles.

That said, personal protective gear is essential to a rider's survival, even in low-speed accidents. When riding on base, motorcyclists are mandated to wear PPE, or personal protective equipment.

PPE requirements for motorcycles, motor scooters and moped operations on Air Force installations and operation by military personnel off Air Force installations include the following:

- Both the operator and any passenger must wear a protective helmet. Helmets must meet, at a minimum, U.S. Department of Transportation standards and be properly worn and fastened.

- Both the operator and any passenger must wear impact-resistant goggles, wraparound glasses or a full-face shield on their helmet. A motorcycle windshield alone does not meet this requirement.

- A brightly colored or contrasting vest or jacket worn as an outer-upper garment during the day and reflective material worn during night riding for both the operator and passenger. Air Battle Uniforms and flight suits alone do not meet this requirement. The upper-outer garment will be clearly visible and not covered. A clearly visible reflective belt is the minimum acceptable reflective material for nighttime riding.

Another danger to motorcyclists is their relative low visibility to other motorists.

The old adage that “loud pipes save lives” is true.

Anything motorcyclists can do to make themselves notice by other drivers, whether it is by being heard or seen, is one less danger during the ride.

Thankfully, the number of servicemembers killed on motorcycles is trending downward.

This might be in part because of events such as the Motorcycle Safety event today at the Home and Traditions parking lot from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Ride safe, arrive alive.