A Specialist assigned to the U.S. Army Reserve, Dublin, California, died in a PMV-2 mishap 24 July 2021 in Dublin at 1400 local. The Soldier’s unit was released from training at approximately 1100 to travel back to home of record, and a group of nine Soldiers went to a nearby indoor go-kart track. While waiting their turn at the track, the Soldier began operating his motorcycle at a high rate of speed when he lost control and slammed into a pillar. Emergency medical services were called and the Soldier was pronounced dead on the scene by the Alameda Fire Department at 1414. The unit was notified of the mishap at 1430 by one of the other Soldiers. The Dublin Sheriff’s Department is currently conducting an investigation.
Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of 27 Soldiers a year to off-duty PMV-2 mishaps. This mishap was the 21st off-duty PMV-2 fatality of FY21.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
While motorcycles can be a fun, quick and convenient way to travel, there are higher risks involved compared to driving cars. Due to having less impact protection, many motorcycle accidents become fatal. Should a motorcyclist get into a motorcycle crash, they are 27 times more likely to die compared to those who get into car accidents. Accidents happen, but sadly many are preventable.
Here a few simple tips to increase motorcycle safety. These tips could be the difference in preventing a fatal motorcycle accident.
1. Be aware, be focused, be alert - It is important that you eliminate as many distractions as you can when riding a motorcycle. Be mindful of your surroundings and other cars around you. A sudden stop, change in traffic speed or other obstacles could spring up at any moment. Never operate a motorcycle drunk, sleepy or sluggish. Even small distractions can lead to serious injuries.
2. Assume no car can see you - Riding a motorcycle makes you less of a viewable obstacle on the road. Many motorcyclists tend to fall within a car driver’s blind spot. Also, car drivers are subconsciously paying more attention to other cars on the road than motorcycles. Many motorcycle accidents occurred when a car driver didn’t see a motorcycle and thought a motorcycle “came out of nowhere,” even though the motorcyclist was nearby for miles. It’s best to believe that none of the other cars on the road can see you so you don’t make a poor decision based on assumption.
3. Pay attention to the wheels of the cars in front of you - One useful tip for motorcyclists is to pay attention to the wheels of the cars in front of them. Seeing where the wheel pivots will help you discern where they are going if the car decides to change lanes or make a left turn. It also lets you know what direction the car is going if it decides to back up near you.
4. Make sure your path is clear - While you’re observing the wheels of the cars in front of you, check to make sure your path is clear. Many motorcycle crashes are caused by running over fallen tree branches, rocks, potholes, oil spills or other hazards on the road. While a car could possibly run over these hazards without a problem, due to the car’s weight and four-wheel drive, a motorcycle weighs significantly less and requires more balance on two wheels. Look ahead to avoid hazardous paths or pull over to a stop at a safe place if you see such obstacles ahead.