Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

A 39-year-old Sergeant First Class assigned to Fort Cavazos, Texas, died in a PMV-2 mishap 30 June 2024 in Killeen, Texas, at 2336 local. Two Soldiers were involved in an accident when their motorcycle struck the rear of a box truck. The Killeen Police Department (KPD) responded and pronounced Soldier No. 1 (operator) dead at the scene. Soldier No. 2 (passenger) was transported to the local hospital in critical condition. KPD suspects excessive speed was a contributing factor. Soldier No. 1 was not wearing any personal protective equipment (PPE), while Soldier No. 2 was wearing a helmet but no other PPE. The unit/safety points of contact are waiting for KPD to release its final report.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 28 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 24th PMV-2 fatality of FY24 and same as the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

Safety tip

Bike Riding Safety Kit Every Rider Needs

Explore the various bike riding gear that ensures maximum safety on the road for the rider. Uncover the benefits of riding with essential gear such as helmets, gloves, jackets and more.

1. Helmet. Wearing a helmet is of utmost importance for a rider’s safety and well-being, especially on busy roads. While some riders like to feel the wind on their face while riding, neglecting the importance of a helmet can be fatal. Bike helmets are designed to reduce noise and add comfort, in addition to providing safety. There are different types of motorcycle helmets on the market. You can do your own research to find out about them and choose the one that suits you. Full-face helmets are highly recommended as they provide the best protection. Other types of helmets have their own merit and are preferred by certain riders for reasons like comfort, price or specific uses.
2. Riding gloves. Bike hand gloves are an essential part of your rider safety kit, as in case of an accident, you will try to protect your head with your hands. Without wearing protective gloves, the risk of bruises and cuts to your hand is elevated. Injuries to your hands might not be fatal, but fractures in your knuckles and bones can prevent you from riding a motorcycle again. Riding gloves also protect hands from heat, cold and debris, and if you choose waterproof gloves, they can also keep your hands dry in the rain.
3. Riding pants. Good-quality riding pants are one of the essential safety items for bikers. Riding pants, also known as riding trousers and riding jeans, are rigid and heavier than usual pants and shield the rider’s knees, hips and ankles from injuries during an accident. These pants are designed to be tough and abrasion-resistant so the fiction does not harm your skin. To ensure maximum safety, incorporate knee protectors and hip protectors inside your riding pants. Also, be sure to check for customer reviews before you buy riding pants online.
4. Motorcycle jacket. Motorcycle riding jackets for men and women are the best riding gear to protect the upper body from cuts and bruises. Chest, back and shoulder protectors can also be added to the jacket to increase its durability. A protector-equipped jacket can protect your ribs from breaking in an accident. Riding jackets are available in a variety of styles and materials, so compare each of them to find the one that suits you.
5. Motorcycle riding boots. Motorcycle boots are designed to protect your feet and ankles. In addition to providing excellent abrasion protection, they also protect your feet from the elements. Are you looking to buy riding boots online? Consider the following factors before you make a purchase: the material, boot height, price and comfort. Choose the right riding boots that will withstand tough terrains and weather conditions and provide value for your money.
6. Motorcycle eyewear. Motorcycle sunglasses and goggles act as a barrier between your eyes and the natural elements. They shield your eyes from the harsh sun rays, dust, dirt and rain. Eyewear can also help a rider enhance their visibility and adjust lighting conditions in the intense sun. If you are having trouble finding the right motorcycle eyewear, you can buy motorcycle sunglasses online. There are a lot of styles and features to choose from, so compare each of the glasses and goggles to find the one that suits you best.
7. Performance layers. The performance layers work as a base on which your other motorcycle personal protective equipment is worn. They help to manage the body temperature by keeping you warm during the winter and cool during the summer. High-quality performance layers are made of moisture-wicking materials, which help absorb sweat and keep you comfortable. You must be aware of the material and other properties of the base layer before you buy them. You can buy performance layers online to find one that is comfortable, durable and inexpensive.
8. Rain gear. Rain gear keeps the rider dry and protects from rainwater. It is made from high-quality materials that prevent slipperiness and discomfort. Apart from keeping the rider dry, it also provides insulation. You can buy rain gear online for your convenience. Remember to check for the features and customer reviews before purchasing. Invest in high-quality rain gear to ride confidently in any weather.
9. Lights. Lights are a great addition to your bike-riding accessories list for increased visibility on the road. Incorporating appropriate lights can make the road safer for the rider as well as others. Fog lights are used for enhancing visibility and safety during low-visibility conditions like fog, rain or snow. Helmet lights are another great option for adding visibility to the rider in low-light conditions, decreasing the chances of a collision with others.

Conclusion

Investing in high-quality safety gear for bikers is essential for preventing injuries and enjoying a comfortable ride. It is important to wear safety gear that fits the rider’s body. Wearing too loose or tight gear might make the rider uncomfortable.

PPE is required by regulation:

AR 385-10

c. Motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle rider protection. Commanders will ensure that all individuals covered by this regulation wear the following PPE while operating motorcycles, off-road vehicles, and ATVs on the installation and by all Soldiers who ride motorcycles and ATVs at any time on or off Army installations.

(1) Helmets. Helmets will—

(a) In the United States, meet FMVSS 218, United Nations Economic Commission for Europe Standard, BS 6658, or Snell Standard according to DoDI 6055.04. The DOT symbol is on the outside back of the helmet, near the bottom.

(b) Outside the United States, meet the HN standards. If the HN has no standard, helmets must meet at a minimum DOT FMVSS. (c) Be properly fastened under the chin.

(2) Eye protection. Eye protection must meet or exceed ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 for impact and shatter resistance (includes goggles, wraparound glasses, or a full-face shield (properly attached to a helmet)). A windshield or fairing does not constitute eye protection.

(3) Foot protection. Foot protection includes sturdy over-the-ankle footwear that affords protection for the feet and ankles (durable leather or ballistic-type fabric athletic shoes that cover the ankles are acceptable).

(4) Protective clothing. Protective clothing includes long-sleeved shirt or jacket, long trousers, and full-fingered gloves or mittens made from leather or other abrasion-resistant material. Motorcycle jackets and pants constructed of abrasion-resistant materials (such as leather, Kevlar®, or Cordura®) and containing impact-absorbing padding are strongly encouraged. Riders are encouraged to select PPE that incorporates fluorescent colors and retro-reflective material.

Tips provide by Bikester

A Private First Class assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, died in a PMV-4 mishap 15 June 2024 in Lakewood, Washington, at 0400 local. Two Soldiers were involved in a vehicle accident when their vehicle ran off the road and struck a tree. The Washington State Patrol (WSP) responded and pronounced Soldier No. 1 (driver) dead at the scene. Soldier No. 2 (passenger) was transported to the local hospital with non-fatal injuries. WSP suspects excessive speed was a contributing factor and Soldier No. 2 was wearing a seat belt. The unit/safety points of contact are waiting for the WSP to release its final report.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 35 Soldiers a year to PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap was the 28th fatality of FY24 and above the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

Safety tip

Dangers of Speeding
For more than two decades, speeding has been involved in approximately one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities. In 2022, speeding was a contributing factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities.

Speed also affects your safety even when you are driving at the speed limit but too fast for road conditions, such as during bad weather, when a road is under repair or in an area at night that isn’t well lit.

Speeding endangers not only the life of the speeder, but all of the people on the road around them, including law enforcement officers. It is a problem we all need to help solve.

By the Numbers
More than 12,000 people were killed in speed-related crashes in 2021 – an 8% increase from 2020. While drivers of all ages are represented in speeding-related crashes, data shows about 24% of drivers 18-44 involved in fatal crashes were speeding, and young men are the most likely to be speeding at the time of fatal crashes. In 2021, 35% of male drivers 15-20 and 31% of male drivers 21-24 involved in fatal crashes were speeding.

Know the Dangers of Speeding
No matter how advanced your driving skills are, speeding is dangerous. Speeding:

• Reduces your ability to steer safely around another vehicle, a hazardous object or an unexpected curve;
• Extends the time it takes your vehicle to stop; and
• Increases the risk of a crash because other vehicles and pedestrians may not be able to judge your distance correctly.

https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/speeding-catches-up-with-you
Tips provided by CDC and NHSTA.

A 38-year-old Sergeant First Class assigned to Fort Liberty, North Carolina, died in an off-duty sports, recreation and physical training mishap 12 June 2024 in Whiteville, Tennessee, at 1108 local. While on leave, the Soldier experienced a hard landing during a skydiving event. He was transported to the local hospital, where he was pronounced dead by the attending physician.

Since 2019, the Army has lost an average of 11 Soldiers a year to off-duty sports, recreation and physical training mishaps. This was the third off-duty sports, recreation and physical training mishap of FY24 and above the number of off-duty sports, recreation and physical training fatalities from this time last year.

A 45-year-old Major assigned to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, died in an off-duty PMV-4 mishap 11 June 2024 in Greenfield, Wisconsin, at 1600 local. The Soldier was reportedly involved in a vehicle collision while on PCS leave. The specific circumstances of the mishap are currently unknown. The unit/safety points of contact are waiting for law enforcement to release its final report.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 35 Soldiers a year to off-duty PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap was the 27th off-duty PMV-4 mishap of FY24 and above the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

A Private assigned to Camp Vilseck, Germany, died in an off-duty other ground mishap 10 June 2024 in Rotterdam, New York, at 1800 local. While on block leave, the Soldier attended a party and was found unresponsive the following morning. The unit received a serious incident report from New York Mortuary Affairs. The unit/safety points of contact are awaiting local law enforcement's final investigation report.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of two Soldiers a year to off-duty other ground mishaps. This mishap was the first off-duty other ground fatality of FY24.