Riding a motorcycle is pure joy for many, but motorcycling can also be extremely dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), per vehicle miles traveled in , motorcyclists were about 22 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and were four times more likely to be injured. Two key factors in preventing injury or death on a motorcycle ride are personal protective equipment (PPE) and obeying speed limits.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
From head to toe, good-quality PPE is an essential part of a motorcycle rider’s gear. Wearing a helmet is an obvious choice to reduce the severity of a head injury, or prevent it altogether, and there is no question that a full-face helmet provides the most protection.
Many Soldiers believe they don’t have to wear a helmet if riding in a “no-helmet” state. This is NOT true. An approved helmet, along with other PPE, is required at all times for all Army military personnel operating or riding on a motorcycle, moped or ATV – on or off duty and on or off an installation.
There is a reason that “Dress for the slide, not the ride” is a common motto among motorcycle riders. If you think the cost of buying PPE is too high, consider the cost of not wearing it!
Speeding
- Increases the stopping distance required if you experience a dangerous situation.
- Increases your risk of losing control of the motorcycle.
- Increases the potential of a more severe crash leading to more severe injuries.
In addition to the risk of injury or death from speeding, there are other consequences you may face. Depending on the state, a driver caught speeding may have to pay a large fine, be charged with reckless driving, lose or have points assessed on their license, or spend time in jail.
For more information, please visit https://safety.army.mil/OFF-DUTY/PMV-2-Motorcycles