Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

A Private assigned to Fort Cavazos, Texas, died in a PMV-2 mishap 25 January 2025 in Killeen, Texas, at 1350 local. The Soldier was operating his motorcycle when he collided with another vehicle at an intersection. The Killeen Police Department (KPD) responded and pronounced him dead at the scene. According to the KPD, the Soldier was wearing all his personal protective equipment, but he had not completed the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourse. Speed, alcohol or drug involvement are currently unknown.

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 29 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the ninth PMV-2 fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.

Safety tip

Motorcycle risk rates are typically higher than those for cars, highlighting their relative vulnerability. Several factors, including accident statistics, injury severity and fatality rates, contribute to this distinction. Motorcyclists face a 29 times higher fatality rate per mile traveled compared to car occupants, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This considerable risk underscores the importance of understanding the metrics influencing these rates.

Factors affecting risk rates for motorcycles often involve rider behavior, environmental conditions and vehicle design. Speeding and alcohol use are common contributors to accidents. Road conditions such as potholes or slippery surfaces further escalate risk. Additionally, motorcycles lack certain safety features like seat belts and air bags found in cars, which significantly impacts injury severity in crashes.

Insurance companies use these risk rates to calculate premium costs. Higher risk is directly linked to increased insurance premiums. Understanding these elements allows you to take proactive steps in reducing personal risk. Safety measures such as wearing helmets, taking defensive driving courses and equipping motorcycles with anti-lock braking systems can mitigate many associated dangers.

By focusing on safety and understanding how risk rates are structured, you can make more informed decisions and reduce the likelihood of accidents while enjoying the thrill of motorcycling.

Factors influencing risk rates - understanding risk rates involves evaluating several elements. Each factor can significantly impact your safety and the likelihood of accidents.

Rider Experience
Experienced riders can navigate complex situations more effectively. However, new riders might lack the skills necessary to manage high-risk scenarios. Consider engaging in motorcycle training programs that improve your maneuvering and judgment abilities, reducing accident likelihood.

Motorcycle Type
The design and power of your motorcycle affect its risk level. Sport bikes, known for high speeds, often correlate with higher accident rates. In contrast, touring bikes provide more stability and may reduce risk. Choose a model that matches your riding style and comfort level to help manage risk.

Road Conditions
Road conditions play a crucial role in risk rates. Wet, icy or poorly maintained roads increase the chances of accidents. Stay informed about weather and road reports and plan your routes accordingly. Properly assessing environmental factors can significantly improve your safety.

Tips provided by NHTSA.

A 19-year-old Private First Class assigned to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, died in a PMV-2 mishap 22 December 2024 in Tampa, Florida, at 1800 local. While on leave, the Soldier was involved in a motorcycle accident. He was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital where he died from his injuries. Personal protective equipment, training and speed are currently unknown.

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 29 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the eighth PMV-2 fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.

A 27-year-old Staff Sergeant assigned to Joint Base Langley Eustis, Virginia, died in a PMV-2 mishap 21 December 2024 near the installation at 1430 local. The Soldier was riding his motorcycle when he lost control, struck a guardrail and was thrown off his motorcycle. He was transported to a local hospital where he died from his injuries. The use of personal protective equipment, training, speed and involvement of alcohol or drugs are currently unknown.

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 29 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the seventh PMV-2 fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.

A 25-year-old Specialist assigned to Kadena Air Base, Japan, died in a PMV-2 mishap 8 December 2024 on Camp Foster, Japan, at 1600 local. The Soldier was riding his sportbike out the installation gate when he lost control and crashed. According to reports, he was properly licensed and met all base requirements for registration and qualification. Motorcycle training, personal protective equipment and alcohol or drug use are currently unknown.

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 29 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the sixth PMV-2 fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

A 28-year-old Sergeant assigned to Fort Liberty, North Carolina, died in a PMV-2 mishap 4 May 2024 in Fayetteville, North Carolina, at 0145 local. The Soldier was riding his motorcycle when he struck a guardrail. The Cotton Fire Rescue, Cumberland County Emergency Medical Services and North Carolina State Highway Patrol responded to the scene and transported the Soldier to the local medical center, where he was pronounced dead by the attending physician. The Soldier was wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment and involvement of alcohol is unknown. Completion of the required Motorcycle Safety Foundation training has not been verified. 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 28 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 20th PMV-2 fatality of FY24 and above the number of fatalities for the same time last year.