AFMC suffers motorcycle fatalities

3 Oct 2006 | Nicole Singer

The Air Force saw motorcycle fatalities rise from 15 in fiscal 2005 to 17 in fiscal 2006, with two of the 17 assigned to Air Force Materiel Command organizations.

Both AFMC fatalities occurred during the 101 Critical Days of Summer, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. In one case, a senior airman was speeding on wet pavement and lost control of the motorcycle. The Airman was not wearing a helmet. In the second scenario, a truck pulled out in front of a technical sergeant who could not maneuver his bike in time to avoid a collision.

A recent University of Southern California study involved in-depth research of 900 motorcycle crashes and additional analysis of 3,600 crashes. Researchers found that around three-quarters of the crashes involved a motorcycle and another vehicle. Two-thirds of these crashes were caused by the other vehicle violating the motorcyclists' right-of-way.

To reduce the potential for future motorcycle-related accidents, AFMC safety officials offer the following tips for motorists.

> Check blind spots. This is especially true when referring to motorcycles, which are smaller and easier to miss.

> Be aware that because of their size, motorcycles appear to be going faster or may seem farther away then they actually are.

> Drivers should maintain a safe distance when following a motorcyclist. Remember, motorcyclists are exposed to all the outside elements and it is harder for them to stop on slippery pavement.

Additionally, the following tips for motorcyclists could also reduce accidents.

> Try to be as visible as possible.

> Keep headlights on during the day and night.

> Place reflective strips and decals on clothing and the motorcycle.

> Avoid weaving in and out of lanes and always abide by the speed limit.

> Give yourself and other motorists enough time and space to respond.

According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, attire can minimize the damage for motorcyclists involved in an accident. Riders should always wear a helmet. Safety officials also encourage riders to wear gloves, footwear that comes over the ankle, long pants and a long-sleeve shirt or jacket.

AFI 91-207, U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program, outlines requirements for a motorcycle safety course and proper attire when riding on military installations.