A Specialist assigned to Fort Riley, Kansas, died in a motorcycle mishap 12 July 2025 in Florence, Kansas, at 0130 local. The Soldier’s personal protective equipment use, rider training, speed and the involvement of alcohol or drugs are currently unknown. Additional information is unavailable.

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 30 Soldiers a year to motorcycle mishaps. This mishap was the 24th motorcycle fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.

Safety Tips

9 Tips for Safe Night Riding

Whether you’re an experienced biker or a beginner, here are some ways to keep yourself safe when it’s dark so you can get more enjoyment out of those night rides.

1. Avoid Looking Directly into Headlights. While it is sometimes unavoidable when coming around blind corners, avoid looking at headlights. To avoid having your vision temporarily impaired, instead focus on lane markings and the road’s edge to maintain a clear view.
2. Avoid Risky Riding Practices. This tip should go without saying, but avoiding risky riding practices at night decreases your chances of an accident. Maintaining the speed limit, practicing defensive riding and anticipating potential road hazards while riding responsibly will help you get to your destination safely.
3. Avoid Tinted Visors. Tinted visors are meant only for daytime riding. When driving at night, ensure you are using a clear visor if you prefer riding with a face-covering rather than an open-faced helmet.
4. Ensure Your Lights are Functioning. Before heading out on a nighttime ride, perform a quick pre-ride checklist to ensure your motorcycle lights are working properly. Check your headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals, if applicable. Some riders also add extra auxiliary lighting to improve visibility, especially those who ride in rural areas or areas with poor lighting. Make sure you know your state’s regulations on colored or indirect lighting so you are still following local and regional riding rules.
5. Refrain from Using Substances. Not only is riding under the influence of substances against the law, it also greatly increases a rider’s chances of injury. Substances impair your judgment, coordination, reaction time and ability to safely operate a motorcycle. You should always make the choice to ride sober, whether you’re riding during the day or at night.
6. Use High-Visibility Clothing and Gear. Dressing in colors that make you visible to motorists when riding at night will greatly decrease the chances of an accident. Choose high-visibility jackets, vests, helmets and other gear that will increase your visibility in low-light conditions.
7. Use Reflective Tape and Decals. In addition to visible clothing, using reflective tape and decals on your motorcycle and gear, like your helmet, will make you visible to motorists while riding at night or in low-light areas. While there are required decals in some states, you can also find fun ones with favorite characters, bands and other interests that will allow you to personalize your bike and gear while also making nighttime riding safer by enhancing your visibility on the road.
8. Maintain a Safe Driving Distance. Maintaining a safe riding distance will increase your reaction time to avoid any sudden obstacles in your path.
9. Leverage Other Vehicle Lights. Other motorists’ lights can be an advantage for you, especially if their headlights and taillights illuminate any road debris. While it is still important to maintain a safe distance, using any extra lighting that shows you what to expect on the road ahead is an added advantage when riding at night.

Tips provided by CycleTrader.com