A 27-year-old Sergeant assigned to Fort Carson, Colorado, died in an off-duty sports, recreation and physical training mishap 24 July 2024 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at 1730 local. The Soldier was riding his dirt bike in a mountainous area, when he struck a tree. A hiker found him and called 911. Emergency medical services responded and airlifted the Soldier to Penrose Hospital where he was placed in a medically induced coma. He was taken off life support and later died from his injuries. The Soldier was wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment and alcohol was not a contributing factor.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 11 Soldiers a year to off-duty sports, recreation and physical training mishaps. This was the fifth fatal off-duty sports, recreation and physical training fatality of FY24 and below the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

Safety tip

The Fundamentals of Dirt Bike Safety

Whether you are a new rider or a seasoned expert, we could all use the occasional refresher course on dirt bike safety. This guide from Northern Power Sports is here to help! Read on for a quick primer on dirt bike safety, and feel free to contact us with any questions. Northern Power Sports is your trusted motorcycle dealer in Fairbanks, AK.

Dress for Success

Each time you get behind the handlebars of your dirt bike, you should be wearing all the appropriate safety gear. That includes a DOT-approved helmet with eye protection, sturdy boots and gloves, long pants, and a riding jacket. If your helmet does not feature a visor, make sure to invest in a pair of goggles.

Stay on Designated Trails

Unless you have a dual-sport model, you should steer clear of paved surfaces when riding your dirt bike, except to cross the road where permitted. Dirt bikes are not street-legal, and with good reason: they do not have all the safety features required to navigate traffic. That’s why dirt bike riders of all experience levels should stick with designated off-road trails.

Ride with a Friend

There is safety in numbers, so you should implement the “buddy system” whenever possible when riding your dirt bike. This is especially important when you are a new rider, and when riding in remote areas where emergency services are not readily available.

Maintain Focus

Never ride your dirt bike if you are not feeling well enough to stay focused, or when you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These substances will slow down your response time and limit your spatial awareness, which can lead to accidents. On long-distance rides, remember to pack enough food and water to keep you fueled up and focused.

Know Your Limits

While riding a dirt bike is all about high-speed thrills, there is an important difference between taking calculated risks and pushing yourself to a dangerous degree. For example, as a new rider, you should concentrate on basic skills before you tackle any advanced or intermediate trails. You should also take care never to exceed the limits of your bike, like its weight capacity or maximum speed.

Supervise Young Riders

Last but not least, make sure all riders under the age of 16 have constant adult supervision. Trail riding can be a great activity for the whole family, provided everyone has a good understanding of dirt bike safety. Young riders should also have bikes that are suitable for their size and experience level.

Dirt Bike Riding Tips

1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves.
2. Except for dual-purpose models, never ride on paved surfaces except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. Dirt bikes are designed to be operated off-highway.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4. Supervise riders younger than 16; dirt bikes are not toys.
5. Never permit youngsters to ride dirt bikes that are too tall or too powerful for their capabilities.
6. Don’t ride alone on remote trails. Use the buddy system.
7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
8. Take a hands-on riding course.

Tips provided by Bike Safety and The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)