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Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

MEDIA Preliminary Loss Reports

About Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

PLRs are intended to be used as an engagement tool for leaders to discuss the hazards and trends impacting Soldier safety and readiness. A PLR contains only basic information, as the investigation is ongoing, but provides sufficient background to allow leaders an opportunity to communicate risk at the Soldier level.

 

PLR 24-080 - PMV-2 Mishap Claims One Soldier's Life

Posting Date:   /   Categories: Preliminary Loss Reports, Motorcycles

A 21-year-old Specialist assigned to the Army National Guard, Grand Forks, North Dakota, in a Title 10 status died in a PMV-2 mishap on in Bismarck, North Dakota, at local. The Soldier was operating his motorcycle when a passenger van he was overtaking turned into his path, resulting in a collision. Local police and emergency services responded and pronounced him dead at the scene. The use of personal protective equipment, completion of Motorcycle Safety Foundation training, speed and the involvement of alcohol are currently unknown.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 28 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 31st PMV-2 fatality of FY24 and below the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

Safety tip

Riding a motorcycle is dangerous. Luckily, bikes also give you the best possible tools to avoid crashing — incredibly powerful brakes, obstruction-free vision, excellent handling and very grippy tires. Here’s how to use those tools, and your very own brain, to avoid one of these common motorcycle accidents.

Motorcycle Safety:

Want to reduce your odds of dying in a crash? Get educated. New riders should complete a basic rider course from the MSF or similar while advanced tuition is available at racetracks. It can be cheaper than your fear.

Safety gear doesn’t just help prevent injury in a crash, it can also make riding more comfortable, put you in better control of your bike and help you be seen by other drivers. Bright colors on your helmet and jacket/suit will help car drivers see you, potentially avoiding some of the common accidents detailed below.

A Car Turns Left in Front of You

This is the most common motorcycle accident. A car fails to see you or judges your speed incorrectly, turning in front of you at an intersection. Blame inattention, distraction, blind spots and even psychology; a driver looking for cars perceives merely an absence of cars, not the presence of a motorcycle.

How To Avoid It: Simple, you just need to see it coming. Part of your job as a motorcyclist is to develop a precognitive sixth sense. Look for signs that could indicate someone may turn in front of you: a car is at an intersection waiting to turn, there’s a gap in traffic near an intersection, driveway or parking lot. In either situation, slow down, cover your brakes and get ready to take evasive action. Yes, you do need to take something as innocuous as a car waiting in a turn lane as a major and immediate threat to your life. You also need to account for objects outside of your vision. Gaps in traffic indicate the possibility of someone coming through that gap, even if you can’t see them. Again, MAJOR THREAT, PREPARE FOR EVASIVE ACTION.

And once you’ve identified said threat, you can work it through levels of severity. Is the driver clearly able to see you, without obstruction from their window pillars, trees or signs? Is that person actually looking? Are they looking at you? How are they situated in the road? What is their speed? Where are their wheels pointing?

Look at their wheels, not the car – they’ll give you the first clue of movement. During all this, also be aware of what’s behind and to your side. Should you need to take evasive action, you’ll need to know your routes of escape. It’s no good braking in time to avoid a turning car, only to be swatted from behind by a tailgating SUV. What’s the road surface like? Is it going to be able to handle the full force of your brakes or are you going to lock them? You do know how to use the full ability of your brakes, right?

Under no circumstances should you “lay the bike down.” Your best chance of survival comes from shedding as much speed as possible pre-collision, and you’re going to be able to do that best with the bike completely upright, using both brakes. Even if you only have time to lose 10 or 20 mph, that could be the difference between going home with bruises and going home at all.

A Car Changes Lane into You

You’re riding in traffic when a car in another lane suddenly veers into the space you’re occupying. Remember, our tiny motorcycles can easily fit into blind spots and drivers looking for cars aren’t psychologically programmed to see motorcycles.

How To Avoid It: Be aware of where blind spots lie and spend as little time in them as possible. If you can see a driver's eyes in their mirrors, then they have the ability to see you, too (But remember that still doesn't always mean they're looking – Ed.).

Beware of situations where lane changes become more possible. Is highway traffic slowing, with one lane moving faster than others? People are going to want to be in that lane. Don’t be where they want to be.

Look for signs of a car changing lanes: turn signals, wheels turning, the car wandering around its own lane while the driver checks his/her mirrors and, of course, the driver’s head moving. Be aware of all that, in all the cars around you, at all times, and you’ll be good.

The Most Common Bike Accident

According to the 1981 Hurt Report—the largest study ever conducted on motorcycle accident causation—alcohol is a factor in 50 percent of all bike wrecks.

How To Avoid It: Don’t drink and ride.

Tips provided by RideApart.com Staff

 

 

PLR 24-079 - PMV-2 Mishap Claims One Soldier's Life

Posting Date:   /   Categories: Preliminary Loss Reports, Motorcycles

A 29-year-old Soldier assigned to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, died in a PMV-2 mishap in Joelton, Tennessee, at local. The Soldier was traveling east when he crested a hilltop and collided with an Isuzu pickup truck traveling west. The pickup truck was turning left into a driveway, crossing into the Soldier’s path. The local police responded to the scene. The Soldier’s use of personal protective equipment, current license, completion of the required Motorcycle Safety Foundation training, and involvement of alcohol or speed are currently unknown.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 28 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 30th PMV-2 fatality of FY24 and above the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

Safety tip

Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents & How to Avoid Them

If you ride a motorcycle, statistics show that you’re at a greater risk of being seriously injured or dying in a crash than driving in a car.

However, there are a number of ways you can protect yourself and prevent yourself from being involved in a motorcycle accident in the first place.

Cars Turning Left in Front of a Motorcycle

Left-turn accidents at intersections are one of the most common causes of crashes between motorcycles and cars.

Left turn crashes can occur when:

  • A car makes an unprotected left when a motorcycle has the right-of-way going straight.
  • A motorcycle tries to pass a car on the left that is making a left turn.

Either of these can result from a combination of distractions, poor judgement or lack of visibility.

How to Avoid It

The best way to avoid being involved in an accident with a car turning left is to look for the hazard and avoid it.

When you approach an intersection, assume that the cars are going to make it dangerous for you. Look for clues that a car might be turning left.

Slow down, spot your exit routes and be prepared to stop if necessary.

Panic Stops & Skids

Panic stops or emergency stops in which you stop too quickly because of an unexpected hazard can cause you to lose control of your bike and go into a skid.

How to Avoid It

First, you’ll need to be able to recognize and prioritize potential hazards before they become an immediate problem. Look for safer paths and exit routes so you can avoid panic stopping in the first place.

Next, you’ll need to be good a using your brakes.

Use the front brake lever and rear brake pedal at the same time. Spend some time practicing your stopping distance and control in an empty parking lot until you’re a pro.

Tips for other Motorists

Nobody ever wants to be involved in a crash, and it’s every driver’s responsibility to be safe and respectful on the road.

Automobile drivers can help prevent accidents with motorcycles by:

  • Making a conscious effort to spot motorcyclists when they drive.
  • Double checking for motorcycles before making turns and changing lanes.
  • Giving motorcycles the full lane.
  • Keeping a safe following distance behind a motorcycle rider.

Tips provided by Motorcyclezombie.com and RideApart.com

 

 

PLR 24-076 - PMV-2 Mishap Claims One Soldier's Life

Posting Date:   /   Categories: Preliminary Loss Reports, Motorcycles
A Lieutenant Colonel assigned to San Antonio, Texas, died in a PMV-2 mishap 3 August 2024 at 1620 local. The Soldier was riding his motorcycle when he was involved in a crash. Local police and emergency services responded, and he was pronounced dead while enroute to the local University hospital. He completed the Basic RiderCourse but was not wearing personal protective equipment. Speed and alcohol involvement are currently unknown.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 28 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 29th PMV-2 fatality of FY24 and below the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

Safety tip

Per AR 385-10

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.

(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) 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.

Helmets
The most important protective gear.
Choose DOT compliant helmets for impact resistance and head injury prevention.
Full-face helmets offer additional comfort and protection.

Face Shields and Goggles
Essential for protecting the face from wind, insects, and debris.
Ensure they are impact-resistant and free of scratches.

Footwear
Over-the-ankle boots with oil-resistant soles provide protection against burns and impacts, and aid in maintaining grip.

Gloves
Full-fingered motorcycle gloves protect against various elements and injuries.
Ensure proper fit for optimal control and comfort.
Jackets, Pants, Riding Suits
Use leather or abrasion-resistant fabrics for protection.
Designed for comfort and crash protection, with features like wind flaps and fitted cuffs.

Overview
Riding a motorcycle is among the riskier modes of transportation. Not only does operating a motorcycle require more physical skill and strength than driving a passenger vehicle, but motorcycles lack a protective structure, offering the rider virtually no protection in a crash. Furthermore, the motorcycle’s smaller size relative to most motor vehicles may make it less visible to drivers and will also make it more vulnerable in a collision with larger, heavier passenger vehicles and trucks.

Motorcycling increased in popularity in the early 2000s with increases in both motorcycle registrations and VMT during that time. Since 2011, both registrations and VMT have remained relatively consistent (NCSA, 2000; NCSA, 2023).

Along with this growth in popularity and riding exposure was a rise in the number of crashes and fatalities involving motorcyclists. From 2000 to 2008 the number of motorcyclists killed in crashes increased by 83% and the number injured increased by 66% (NHTSA, 2011). Since 2015 more than 5,000 motorcyclists have been killed in traffic crashes annually (NCSA, 2023). Of increasing concern is the rise in fatal crashes since the COVID-19 pandemic for all road users, including motorcyclists (Office of Behavioral Safety Research, 2021).

Despite accounting for only 3.5% of registered vehicles, motorcyclists comprised 14% of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities in 2021. Additionally, motorcyclists were nearly 24 times more likely to die in traffic crashes per VMT than passenger car occupants (NCSA, 2023). Moreover, in 2021, per 100 million VMT, there were 30.68 motorcyclist fatalities compared to 1.22 passenger car occupant fatalities per 100 million VMT (NCSA, 2023).

Although motorcycles lack the protective vehicle structure of passenger vehicles, there are actions motorcyclists can take to protect themselves in a crash. Wearing a motorcycle helmet that meets the performance standards of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218 (Motorcycle Helmets, 49 CFR Part 571, 2011; “compliant helmet”) is one of the most effective ways to reduce the chance of serious injury or death in a crash. In 2021 some 39% of fatally injured motorcyclists were not wearing a helmet (NCSA, 2023). Research indicates that helmets reduce motorcycle rider fatalities by 22% to 42% and brain injuries by 41% to 69% (Coben et al., 2007; Cummings et al., 2006; Deuterman, 2004; NHTSA, 2003; NHTSA, 2006; NHTSA, 2019). A Cochrane Collaboration review of 61 studies concluded that risk reductions were on the high end of these ranges (Liu et al., 2008).

A study of hospital data in the 2013 National Trauma Data Bank compared medical outcomes of helmeted versus un-helmeted motorcyclists involved in a crash. Compared to helmeted motorcyclists, un-helmeted motorcyclists were more likely to be admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), more likely to need ventilation, and more likely to have clinical indicators of significant/severe injury (Patel et al., 2019). Another study found that riders who were wearing a helmet were less likely to have a cervical spine injury (Page et al., 2018). Notably, other studies have found no evidence that helmets increase the risk of neck injuries (Brewer et al., 2013; Potts et al., 2008, Strategy E1; NHTSA, 2000; Philip et al., 2013; Ulmer & Preusser, 2003).

Tips provided by AR 385-10, NHTSA and MSF
 

 

PLR 24-074 - PMV-2 Mishap Claims One Soldier's Life

Posting Date:   /   Categories: Preliminary Loss Reports, Motorcycles

A 21-year-old Specialist assigned to Fort Riley, Kansas, died in a PMV-2 mishap in Junction City, Kansas, at local. The Soldier was riding his motorcycle on I-70 when he was involved in a head-on collision with a semi-truck in a construction zone. Local police and emergency services responded and pronounced him dead at the scene. He recently returned from a rotation in Europe and had not attended the motorcycle refresher course. He was properly licensed, wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment and had completed the Basic RiderCourse in . Speed or alcohol involvement are currently unknown.

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

Safety tip

Motorcycle refresher training (MRT). MRT is required for any (motorcycle-licensed and endorsed) Soldier owning a motorcycle and returning from a deployment greater than 180 days. A Soldier must attend MRT prior to operating his or her motorcycle on a public or private street or highway with the exception of riding to the training site or location. MRT will be conducted on the individual’s own motorcycle to confirm ability to safely handle his or her motorcycle. Training will be provided at the unit level utilizing USACRC MRT digital video disk (DVD), which is available online at https://safety.army.mil or by request. Based on MRT performance, commanders can refer motorcycle riders back to the Progressive Motorcycle Program for re-training if they question the operator’s safe riding skills.

Improve Your Motorcycling Skills and Safety with Training
Motorcycling is a unique experience. Whether you ride to and from work, prefer the camaraderie of a group ride on the weekend or enjoy the vistas of an off-pavement excursion, motorcycling engages all your senses and creates an exhilarating sense of freedom.

Along with that freedom comes responsibility, and it's crucial to take every safety precaution.

All states require some form of license to ride a motorcycle on the street, demonstrating a minimum level of riding skill and knowledge. Liability insurance also is required. If your state does not require a hands-on training course before applying for a license, consider taking one anyway to learn basic riding skills and how to stay safe in traffic.

Riding a motorcycle requires a heightened sense of awareness, and more strength and coordination than driving a car. Riding also involves some risks not encountered when driving other vehicles. Motorcycle riders require more maneuvering skill and are more vulnerable in a crash. Motorcycles are not as easily seen as cars or trucks because of their narrow profile. Other motorists, particularly those who don’t ride a motorcycle, may not be looking for motorcycles in traffic. This places the motorcyclist at risk, particularly at intersections.

All these risks can be managed through training and education.

 

 

PLR 24-071 - PMV-2 Mishap Claims One Soldier's Life

Posting Date:   /   Categories: Preliminary Loss Reports, Motorcycles

A 40-year-old Staff Sergeant assigned to Fort Cavazos, Texas, died in a PMV-2 mishap in Salado, Texas, at local. The Soldier was riding his Harley-Davidson Road Glide when he was ejected while trying to avoid a vehicle that pulled into his path of travel. He had completed the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic Rider Course but was not wearing a helmet. Alcohol and drug use is unknown.

Since FY19, the Army has lost an average of 28 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 27th PMV-2 fatality of FY24 and equal to the number of fatalities for the same time last year.

Safety tip

Motorcycle Safety: The Importance of Wearing a Helmet
Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with a unique set of risks. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of a car. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself while riding a motorcycle is by wearing a helmet.

A motorcycle helmet is the single-most important piece of safety equipment for a motorcyclist. In fact, the NHTSA estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017 alone. Here are a few reasons why helmets are so important:

Head injuries are the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents. A helmet can help to protect your head from impact and reduce the risk of brain injury.

Helmets can also help to protect your face and eyes from wind, debris and bugs.

In some states, wearing a helmet is required by law. Even if it's not, Soldiers are still required by Army regulation to wear a helmet whenever operating a motorcycle on and off the installation.

What to Look for When Buying a Motorcycle Helmet
When buying a motorcycle helmet, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you're getting the best protection possible. Here are some key factors to consider:

Safety Standards: Look for a helmet that meets or exceeds the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT) or the Snell Memorial Foundation. These standards ensure that the helmet has been tested for impact resistance and penetration resistance.

Fit: Make sure the helmet fits snugly and comfortably on your head. It should not be too tight or too loose. Try on several different helmets and choose the one that feels the best.

Ventilation: Look for a helmet with good ventilation to keep your head cool and dry.

Visibility: Consider a helmet with a clear visor to improve visibility and reduce glare.

Types of Motorcycle Helmets
There are several different types of motorcycle helmets to choose from, each with their own unique features and benefits. Here are a few of the most popular types:

Full-Face Helmets: These helmets offer the most protection and coverage, including a chin guard to protect your face and jaw. They also tend to be quieter and more aerodynamic.

Open-Face Helmets: These helmets provide less coverage than full-face helmets but offer more freedom and comfort. They typically have a chin guard, but no face shield.

Half Helmets: These helmets provide the least amount of coverage but offer the most freedom and ventilation. They typically have a chin strap, but no face shield or chin guard.

Tips for Safe Motorcycling
In addition to wearing a helmet, there are several other things you can do to stay safe while riding a motorcycle. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Take a motorcycle safety course: Many states offer motorcycle safety courses that can teach you the skills you need to stay safe on the road.

Wear protective clothing: In addition to a helmet, it's also a good idea to wear other protective gear such as a jacket, gloves, and boots.

Be visible: Wear bright, reflective clothing and use your headlight to make yourself more visible to other drivers.

Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of what other drivers are doing and anticipate their actions.

Per AR 385-10

  1. 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—
      1. 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.
      2. Outside the United States, meet the HN standards. If the HN has no standard, helmets must meet at a minimum DOT FMVSS.
      3. 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 provided by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

 

 
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