Grissom Airman reminded of motorcycle safety

GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind. --

With riding weather now upon us, Airmen and civilians are encouraged to take a moment to consider motorcycle safety.

“Even if you don’t ride a motorcycle most of us share the road with them, and need to be aware of them at all times,” said Jerry Skiles, 434th Air Refueling Wing weapons safety manager and motorcycle program coordinator. “In 2015 the Air Force tragically suffered 15 fatal motorcycle accidents. Eighty-seven percent of those fatalities were attributed to operator error.”

To increase safety drivers should avoid texting, talking on cell phones, changing radio stations and eating. In addition, motorcycle riders should take extra precautions because they are more vulnerable than those in passenger vehicles.

“Motorcycle operators are 26 times more likely to die in a crash than someone in a passenger vehicle, so they need to ride more defensively and be more aware of their surroundings,” explained Skiles. “Staying out of blind spots, following traffic laws and wearing recommended personal protective equipment is one of the most effective ways of being safe while riding.”

The Air Force requires military personnel who operate or intend to operate a motorcycle on a roadway to successfully complete motorcycle safety training.  The training consist of an initial course that meets the Motorcycle Safety Foundation basic rider course prior to operating a motorcycle.

In addition to the BRC, intermediate training is required no later than one year after.  Refresher training is required every 5 years and sports bike riders are required to attend a special course focused on addressing issues associated with sport bikes.

“Grissom has joined with another organization to provide training to our personnel with no costs out of pocket,” explained Skiles.  “We want to make riding as safe as possible so everyone can enjoy the road.”

For more information, contact the 434th ARW Safety Office at 765-688-4795.

The 434th ARW is the largest KC-135R Stratotanker unit in the Air Force Reserve Command. Men and women from the Hoosier Wing routinely deploy around the world in support of the Air Force mission.

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