Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

A 23-year-old Specialist assigned to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, died in a PMV-2 mishap 2 June 2023 at 2129 local. The Soldier departed a local restaurant traveling southbound when he struck a car that pulled out in front of him. Three members from the unit were with the Soldier and responded to his aid at the scene. They called local emergency medical services, who transported the Soldier to a local medical facility, where he was pronounced dead. The Soldier was state licensed with six years of riding experience. He completed the Basic RiderCourse 24 October 2021. The safety point of contact is awaiting further mishap specifics from local law enforcement, to include personal protective equipment and toxicology.

Since FY18, the Army has lost an average of 24 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 20th PMV-2 fatality of FY23 and equal to the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.

Safety tip

Motorcycle accidents caused by left-turning cars

The most common motorcycle accident happens when a car makes a left-hand turn in front of you. This is the single most dangerous situation for motorcyclists, accounting for 42% of all accidents involving a motorcycle and car. Usually, the turning car strikes the motorcycle when the motorcycle is:

• Going straight through an intersection


• Passing the car


• Trying to overtake the car

This type of accident is common between two regular cars as well; however, a motorcycle’s size and lack of protection make these accidents much more dangerous for riders. When a vehicle hits another vehicle while making a left-hand turn, it will most likely be found at fault for the accident. However, if the motorcyclist was breaking some law or driving in an unsafe way, then that may not be the case.

How to avoid a left-turn motorcycle crash

To avoid this accident, as is the case with most situations, you need to be able to anticipate the other driver’s next move. This is the best way to stay safe, apart from the usual defensive driving methods and wearing your protective gear. Look for indicators that someone may be about to turn in front of you. For example:

• A car is at an intersection, waiting to turn.


• There's a gap in the traffic in front of you while someone is waiting to go.


• They do a last-second “look both ways” head maneuver.

If you notice anything like this, which you should definitely be looking out for, begin to slow down. Move over to the outside lane away from the car and prepare to brake or take evasive action. Even if you cannot see a car waiting to turn, you should assume that a reasonable gap in front of you will invite another driver to pull out.

Psychologically, car drivers are not looking for motorcyclists. They have trained their brains to only look for large vehicles because that is what they're driving. Combine this with the fact that motorcyclists can be hard to see and you have a dangerous situation.

Also, try to make eye contact with the other driver. If they see you looking at them — and you see them looking at you — there is a good chance they know you are there and will not pull out. Also, check for things obstructing their view; notice which way their tires are pointing; notice if they're actively observing all traffic around them or looking down at their phone.

Tips provided by Dolman Law Group
 

ANALYZE IT   |   TRAIN IT   |   DOWNLOAD PDF

A 23-year-old Specialist assigned to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, died in a PMV-2 mishap 29 May 2023 at 2234 local. The Soldier was riding his sport bike when he collided with a vehicle that turned in front of him. Emergency medical services responded and transported the Soldier to the local hospital, where he died from his injuries. The Soldier had a valid state motorcycle license and completed the Basic RiderCourse in September 2021. The safety point of contact is awaiting further information from local law enforcement, to include personal protective equipment use and the toxicology report.

Since FY18, the Army has lost an average of 24 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 19th PMV-2 fatality of FY23 and equal to the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.

Safety tip

What can riders do to share the road more safely?

1. Wear a helmet!

Hopefully you already have this one covered … no pun intended! A helmet is essential for safe riding. Helmets are your best defense against a serious brain injury should you get in a motorcycle accident. Not all states require that you wear a helmet, but you should. Make sure it fits securely and is up to the highest safety standards.

2. Get comfortable with your motorcycle.

Each motorcycle is unique, so if you’ve upgraded or gotten a new one, you should take some time to try it out and get familiar with its quirks in a controlled environment. Spend some time getting to know how your motorcycle handles turns, your weight, and familiarize yourself with where all its bells and whistles are located, so you won’t be fishing around during a ride!

3. Check your bike before every ride.

A quick check to ensure everything is in working order will save you from starting a doomed trip. Check your tires (their pressure and depth), turn signals, hand and foot brakes, as well as and your fluid levels before departing from home. After that, a quick look to ensure nothing is leaking and you’ll be ready to ride.

4. Ride defensively.

Do not assume you can be seen by drivers on the road. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and you can easily slip into a driver’s blind spot. Keep your lights on while riding and try to wear bright or reflective clothing.

When riding, do so defensively. This means giving yourself plenty of room to make turns and change lanes, driving within the speed limit and assuming drivers won’t be able to see what you’re doing. Recklessly cutting in front of cars could land you in the hospital … or worse.

5. Obey the rules of the road.

The best way to stay safe is to ride as safely as possible! Follow all lane markings, posted signs and speed limits. Yield to those who have the right of way and avoid speeding and cutting off others — you never know when road conditions could change.

6. Be aware of the weather.

Changes in weather can be dangerous for motorcycles, as slippery roads can cause you to lose control. Be aware of conditions for the day before you set out, and have a plan for what to do if the weather worsens.

7. Don’t drink and drive.

Motorcyclists are more likely to die in a drunk driving crash than drivers. Don’t become a sad statistic. Be sure to avoid driving under any kind of influence, when drowsy and while distracted.

Motorcycle safety tips for car drivers
What can drivers do to share the road more safely? Check out these safety tips for drivers:

1. Beware your blind spots.

Motorcycles are smaller than cars so they can be doubly as difficult to see when turning or switching lanes. Be sure to make a visual check as well as use your mirrors when turning or merging.

2. Slow down behind motorcycles.

Motorcycles don’t handle the road the same way as cars, and can be much more sensitive to changes on the road. Motorcycles can also maneuver much faster than cars, so slow your roll to make sure you have time to react.

3. Don’t tailgate.

Leaving room between you and a motorcycle in front of you is essential to helping prevent accidents. Giving yourself room will give you time and space to react if the motorcyclist makes a quick, unexpected turn.

4. Use your turn signals.

Regardless of whether motorcycles are on the road or not, you should use your turn signals to help others on the road anticipate your next move.

5. Dim your headlights.

High beams are more blinding for motorcyclists, so it is important to be sure to dim them when you pass them on the roads at night.

6. Be careful taking left turns.

With any turns, be aware of motorcycles on the road and how fast they are going if you are turning. Left turns can be particularly dangerous due to your blind spots.

7. Don’t drink and drive.

You should never drink and drive. Drinking and driving or distracted driving makes sharing the road more dangerous for everyone.

Tips provided by Insurance Industry
 

ANALYZE IT   |   TRAIN IT   |   DOWNLOAD PDF

A 25-year-old Sergeant assigned to Fort Bliss, Texas, died in a PMV-2 mishap 25 May 2023 at 2345 local. The Soldier and his spouse were riding at night with a group of other riders when he lost control negotiating a curve at a high rate of speed. The motorcycle crashed into a concrete barrier and hit a light pole, and the Soldier and his spouse died at the scene. The Soldier was a state-licensed motorcyclist and scheduled to attend the Basic RiderCourse on 19 July 2023. At the time of the mishap, he was not wearing a helmet; however, his spouse was wearing a helmet. No other personal protective equipment can be confirmed for either person at this time. The safety point of contact is awaiting the toxicology report and official pronouncement of death for the Soldier and his spouse.

Since FY18, the Army has lost an average of 24 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 18th PMV-2 fatality of FY23 and is below the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.

Safety tip

Motorcycle riders continue to be overrepresented in fatal traffic crashes. In 2021, there were 5,932 motorcyclists killed — 14% of all traffic fatalities. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data show that this is the highest number of motorcyclists killed at least since 1975. To keep everyone safe, we urge drivers and motorcyclists to share the road and be alert, and we're reminding motorcyclists to make themselves visible, to use U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant motorcycle helmets and to always ride sober.

Motorcycles in fatal crashes had the highest proportion of collisions with fixed objects (24.6%).

Drivers or motorcycle riders are alcohol-impaired when their blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) are .08 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or higher.

In 2020 motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes had higher percentages of alcohol impairment than drivers of any other motor vehicle type (27% for motorcycles, 23% for passenger cars, 19% for light trucks, and 3% for large trucks).

Motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes at night were three times more frequently alcohol-impaired than those killed during the day in 2020.

In states without universal helmet laws, 57% of motorcyclists killed in 2020 were not wearing helmets, as compared to 11 percent in states with universal helmet laws.

Helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatalities to motorcycle riders and 41% for motorcycle passengers. In other words, for every 100 motorcycle riders killed in crashes while not wearing helmets, 37 of them could have been saved had all 100 worn helmets.

In Texas, 50% of motorcyclists involved in a fatal motorcycle mishap were not wearing a helmet and 40% of the 5,579 motorcyclists killed nationwide in traffic crashes were not helmeted, based on known helmet use.

Important safety reminders for motorcyclists:
 

• Wearing a helmet is the single most effective way to protect yourself from a head injury. Use a motorcycle helmet for every ride, and ensure your passengers also use a helmet.


• Make sure your helmet has a valid U.S. DOT label; the label means the helmet meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards – this is also known as the FMVSS 218 standard. Novelty helmets without this label may not meet the same standard and will not provide the best protection needed in a crash.


• Check the fit of your helmet to ensure optimal protection.


• Wear protective gear like a sturdy jacket, pants, boots, and gloves; safety gear provide protection in case of falls or crashes and improves comfort during the ride.


• Make yourself visible by using high-visibility colors and retro-reflective materials to maximize the ability of drivers to see you.


• Motorcycle riding requires full attention, skill and coordination. Avoid combining riding with drinking alcohol or using other impairing drugs.

  For drivers:
 

• Always be on the lookout for motorcyclists.


• A motorcycle’s smaller size means it can be hidden in your vehicle’s blind spot.


• A motorcycle’s size and narrow profile can make it difficult to judge its distance and speed. Take extra care in judging when to turn or merge.


• Keep a safe distance from the motorcycle in front of you; motorcyclists can slow their motorcycles by downshifting instead of using their brakes. This means the brake lights won’t come on.


• Remember that motorcyclists sometimes change positions in their lane to avoid debris on the road.

Tips provided from NHTSA — NHTSA’s Research and Program Development
 

• In the spotlight — The 2023 Off-Duty Safety Awareness Presentation provides additional information to include videos, statistics and risk mitigation measures in preventing PMV-2 mishaps. Visit https://safety.army.mil/ODSAP for more information.

 

ANALYZE IT   |   TRAIN IT   |   DOWNLOAD PDF

A 37-year-old Sergeant First Class assigned to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, died in a PMV-2 mishap 22 May 2023 at 2100 local. The Soldier was riding his sport bike when he collided head-on with a vehicle that failed to yield the right-of-way while making a left-hand turn. He was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel. The Soldier was current on his motorcycle safety requirements and wearing all personal protective equipment. Alcohol and drugs were not contributing factors in this mishap.

Since FY18, the Army has lost an average of 24 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 17th PMV-2 fatality of FY23 and below the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.

Safety tip

Motorcycles — Sharing the road safely

What can you do to protect motorcyclists?

Many drivers are not aware of how to safely share roads with motorcycles. The vast majority of vehicle versus motorcycle crashes happen in intersections.

Before making a left turn, be sure traffic is clear, and then look again for motorcycles. A vehicle turning in front of motorcycles is the number one cause of fatal accidents for motorcyclists.

Because of road conditions, including potholes, dead animals and road debris, motorcyclists often need to weave from side to side within their lane. Give them as much room as possible.

Remember that motorcyclists have little personal protection other than helmets and the clothes they are wearing, so please help protect them.

Tips for sharing the road with motorcycles

Speeding is a type of aggressive driving behavior. Several factors have contributed to an overall rise in aggressive driving:

• Motorcycles have use of the complete traffic lane. Do not share lanes with motorcycles.


• Failure to yield the right-of-way to a motorcyclist is the most frequent driver error in collisions involving a motorcycle and another vehicle.


• Often drivers do not see motorcyclists until it is too late. This is why it is important for drivers to continually scan the roadway in front, to the rear and to the sides.


• Motorcycles accelerate, turn and stop more quickly than other vehicles. Bad weather, rough road surfaces or inexperience may cause a motorcyclist to fall. All of these are reasons why you should increase your following distance to four seconds or more when behind motorcycles.

 

ANALYZE IT   |   TRAIN IT   |   DOWNLOAD PDF

A 23-year-old Specialist assigned to Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, died in a PMV-2 mishap 4 May 2023, at 0540 local. The Soldier was riding his motorcycle in the Mendonca Park housing area, when he collided with a vehicle that was exiting the area. He was taken to the local hospital by ambulance where resuscitative efforts were unsuccessful. The Soldier had a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement, current registration, completed the USARHAW Basic RiderCourse, and was wearing all required motorcycle personal protective equipment.

Since FY18, the Army has lost an average of 24 Soldiers a year to PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 16th PMV-2 fatality of FY23 and below the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.

Nationally, according to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation

Quick Tips: Ten things all car and truck drivers should know about motorcycles
1. Over half of all fatal motorcycle crashes involve another vehicle. Most of the time, the car or truck driver, not the motorcyclist, is at fault. There are a lot more cars and trucks than motorcycles on the road, and some drivers don't "recognize" a motorcycle – they ignore it (usually unintentionally).

2. Because of its narrow profile, a motorcycle can be easily hidden in a car’s blind spots (door/roof pillars) or masked by objects or backgrounds outside a car (bushes, fences, bridges, etc.). Take an extra moment to look for motorcycles, whether you're changing lanes or turning at intersections.

3. Because of its small size, a motorcycle may look farther away than it appears. It may

also be difficult to judge a motorcycle’s speed. When checking traffic to turn at an intersection or into (or out of) a driveway, predict a motorcycle to be closer than it
looks.

4. Motorcyclists often slow down by downshifting or merely rolling off the throttle, thus not
activating the brake light. Allow more following distance, say 3 or 4 seconds. At intersections, predict a motorcyclist may slow down without visual warning.

5. Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily and to minimize the effects of road debris, passing vehicles, and wind. Understand that motorcyclists adjust lane position for a purpose, not to be reckless or show off, to allow you to share the lane with them.

6. Turn signals on a motorcycle usually are not self-canceling, thus some riders (especially beginners) sometimes forget to turn them off after a turn or lane change. Make sure a motorcycle's signal is for real.

7. Maneuverability is one of a motorcycles better characteristics, especially at slower speeds and with good road conditions, but don't expect a motorcyclist to always be able to dodge out of the way.

8. Stopping distance for motorcycles is nearly the same as for cars, but slippery pavement makes stopping quickly more difficult. Allow more following distance behind a motorcycle because you can't always stop "on a dime."

9. When a motorcycle is in motion, see more than the motorcycle – see the person under the helmet, who could be your friend, neighbor, or relative.

10. If a driver crashes into a motorcyclist, bicyclist, or pedestrian and causes serious
injury, the driver would likely never forgive himself/herself.

Motorcyclists should – Drive Defensively:

• Be especially alert at intersections because approximately 70 percent of motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur there! Watch for vehicles that may unexpectedly turn in front of you or pull out from a side street or driveway. At intersections where vision is limited by shrubbery, parked vehicles, or buildings, slow down, make doubly sure of traffic, and be prepared to react quickly.


• Check the rearview mirrors before changing lanes or stopping. A quick stop without checking rear traffic may result in a rear-end crash. When changing lanes, use signals and make a visual check to assure that you can change lanes safely.


• Watch the road surface and traffic ahead to anticipate problems and road hazards. Road hazards that are minor irritations for an automobile can be a major hazard for a rider. Hazards include potholes, oil slicks, puddles, debris or other objects on the roadway, ruts, uneven pavement, and railroad tracks. Painted roadway markings and manhole covers can be extremely slippery when wet. Go around most hazards. To do so safely, you must be able to spot such hazards from a distance. Slow down before reaching the obstacle and make sure you have enough room before changing direction. Railroad tracks should be crossed at an angle as close to 90 degrees as possible.


• Experienced motorcyclists often have this advice for new riders: "Assume that you are invisible to other motorists and operate your motorcycle accordingly." Position yourself to be seen. Ride in the portion of the lane where it is most likely that you will be seen by other motorists. Avoid the car's "No Zone" (i.e., blind spot). Use your headlights, day and night. All motor vehicles have blind spots where other vehicles cannot be seen with mirrors.


• Tips provided by MSF.org and NHTSA

 

ANALYZE IT   |   TRAIN IT   |   DOWNLOAD PDF