Strategies to Promote Safe Motorcycle Riding to
Employees Who Ride
As an employer there are many ways that you can support your workforce in adopting and practicing safe motorcycle riding. The resource center provides strategies and available resources for integrating motorcycle safety into your workplace and for encouraging employees who ride to follow safe riding recommendations.
To Get Started
Talk to Your Employees About Who Rides
Find out how many of your employees ride motorcycles and what their needs are. Essentially you are conducting a needs assessment. Depending on the size of your organization, you may need to formally survey employees or in smaller organizations, use word of mouth. If you have employees who ride, then determine what their training needs are and how best to support them in being safe riders.
- Are they new riders are more experienced riders?
- Do they have a valid operator’s license?
- Have they completed a training course recently?
- Do they support the lifelong learning and refresher courses?
- Would they be interested in networking with other employees to encourage safe riding?
Appoint a Motorcycle Coordinator
If there is a group of active motorcyclists in your organization, then appoint a group or team coordinator to head a motorcycle safety group. The most important attributes for a workplace motorcycle champion are enthusiasm and an avid interest in riding. The coordinator would function as a liaison between employee riders and company management. With assistance from a local motorcycle dealership, gear shop, or motorcycle club, the coordinator can arrange for speakers or workshops that address safety topics of interest to those who ride. The coordinator should be able to devote a few hours a week to launch and monitor the worksite safety program.
One way to encourage employees to ride safely is to form a group or club. Having peers to help plan and sponsor safety trainings, rides and events helps to motivate people to attend and to participate. The group can be a source for answers to riding questions about licensing and training, safety gear, skills and maneuvers, information on where to ride, where to obtain quality motorcycle maintenance, etc.
Setup a Mentor or “Motorcycle Buddy” Program
Employers may also consider establishing a “mentor” or “buddy” system for employees who are novice riders or new to ”motocommuting”—riding a motorcycle to and from work. Pair novice riders with more experienced riders. The expertise needed may be right in your workplace or you can contact a local motorcycle dealer, or motorcycle advocate from the state highway safety office or the department of motor vehicles to identify experienced riders to help employees get the hang of riding safely. Mentors can provide new riders with information, advice and support to build their confidence and ride safer when biking. Mentors often accompany new riders on their initial trips.
Give a Free “Starter Kit” to New Motorcyclists
The kit can include tips on safe riding, brochures on licensing and training, protective gear, along with discount coupons at local gear shops. Have T-shirts made with your company logo and a rider-friendly design or slogan. Have the motorcycle club or coordinator determine the kit contents.
Provide Visible, Secure and Accessible Motorcycle Parking
Employees want to know their motorcycles are safe while they work. Surveying your employees, formally or informally, will help determine the amount of parking your site will need.
Since bikes are prone to tipping over, special attention should be paid to the slope and surface of the parking space which should be as close to flat as can be attained while still providing adequate drainage. Since the kickstand supports a lot of weight in a small area, it can sink into heated asphalt, causing bikes to fall and pavement to become riddled with dents and holes. For these reasons, concrete, brick, concrete or stone pavers, or a densely packed fine stone dust work best.
The spaces should be grouped together, as opposed to spread throughout a lot, out of the path of other vehicles that could bump them when backing up, keeping clear of overhanging trees to prevent bird droppings or dripping sap.
Because 2-3 people could lift a lighter motorcycles into a van or truck, theft is a concern. Position parking spaces in a high traffic area to assure plenty of visibility, and within view of security cameras, if available. Clearly direct riders with signage to the designated parking.
Implement Motorcycle Safety Awareness Initiatives
Simply knowing how to ride a motorcycle is not the same as knowing how to operate a motorcycle safely and legally. Keep motorcycle safety information “in front” of your employees who ride. Rely on the coordinator and your assessment results to determine the topics addressed and format in which the information is presented.
What Can Employers Do to Implement Motorcycle Safety Awareness Initiatives?
- Use all available internal communications mechanisms: intranet, company newsletter, email blasts, banners, posters, bulletin boards, paycheck inserts, lobby displays, cafeteria kiosks or tables, parking garages signage, etc.
- Contact a local motorcycle dealership to showcase new bicycle models and offer free or subsidized maintenance tune-ups for bike commute. A dealer may be willing to offer volume discounts on gear or maintenance.
- Coordinate a rider-awareness seminar series using local speakers or resources highlighted here in the NETS resource center.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers several safety programs that can be taught by anyone -- especially motorcycle enthusiasts and others who are concerned with traffic safety. The programs focus on advising riders of the benefits of learning to ride properly and safely and on sharing the road safely with motorists.
Materials Available:
The Riding Straight Module can be used by anyone who is interested in helping motorcyclists make wise choices regarding drinking and riding, through education and prevention efforts. A session can last from 15 minutes to 45 minutes. The module contains a Facilitator's Guide, a 12-minute Riding Straight VHS Video, Fatal Vision Simulator Goggles, a roll of MSF floor tape and a CD with digital copy of the Facilitator's Guide. The module can be ordered for $160.00 at:
https://store.msf-usa.org/Store/MoreDetails.aspx?pid=137.
Guide to Group Riding Kit is a video kit that contains enough material for a class of ten students. They learn about ride preparation, standards for organization of the ride, and important knowledge such as proper formations in complex traffic situations. The module can be ordered for $30.00 at:
https://store.msf-usa.org/Store/MoreDetails.aspx?pid=2397.
Employer Example: BG&E 4-Hour Employee Motorcycle Safety Initiative. BG&E, a large central Maryland utility service provider held a Motorcycle Safety Day on a Saturday morning to increase awareness among their employees and family members about motorcycle safety following several off-duty tragedies. The program agenda and flyer are available.
Contact a local motorcycle dealership or gear shop. Typically, employees are enthusiasts involved in the local riding scene and can suggest local experts and speakers. There are also hundreds of motorcycle clubs, and many manufacturers who have safety materials and presentations to offer.
- Provide safety information on motorcycle safety awareness to your employees.
Materials Available:
NETS Motorists Share the Road with Motorcycles,
jpg version, pdf version
NETS Riders Share the Road Safely with Motorists,
jpg version, pdf version
(Files are large and may take time to download.)
Launch a Safe Rider Program Around Timely Events
The national motorcycle safety awareness events, listed below, are celebrated annually and are opportune times to launch or recharge your organization’s rider safety initiatives. You may also wish to invite your employee’s family members or friends who ride to participate in the planned events and activities. Arrange for an experienced motorcycle enthusiast from your organization to be part of the planning process.
Choose the events and activities that are suitable for your workforce. This will depend on the size of your organization, the resources available and the interest and enthusiasm of those within the organization for motorcycling. Your involvement may range from putting up posters announcing the safety observance to staging a major informational event with a series of lunch and learn interactive sessions on safe riding. You may simply bring in bagels for event participants. It doesn’t have to be complicated.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is in May.
Each year, May is designated Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. During this month, MSF, other motorcycle organizations, state highway safety offices, and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) join together to conduct a variety of activities to promote the motorcycle safety. The campaign focuses attention on training programs for motorcyclists and asks that other motorists share the road safely with riders. NHTSA develops a Motorcycle Safety Awareness Planner for use during the month. The Planner includes fact sheets, messaging that can be used ‘as-is’ or tailored to educate your employees about the importance of sharing the road.
Materials Available:
Access the 2008 campaign planner at: http://www.nhtsa.gov/planners/ShareTheRoad2008/
Ride to Work Day (RTW) is July 16 in 2008.
The advocacy day is sponsored by Ride to Work, Inc., a non-profit advocacy organization, for the past 14 years. According to RTW, over eighty million cars and light trucks are used for daily commuting on American roads, and about 200,000 motorcycles are a regular part of this mix. On Ride to Work Day, the practical side of riding becomes more visible as a much larger number of America’s 8,000,000 cycles are ridden to work.
Materials Available:
Access RTW day campaign materials at: www.ridetowork.org
Drive Safely Work Week (DSWW) is October 6-10 in 2008.
DSWW is sponsored by the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) each year during the first full week in October. The campaign in its 12th year, is observed by employers and organizations nationwide. The campaign helps employers promote safe driving practices within their place of business and keep the nation’s roadways safe for all roadway users. The 2008 campaign will focus on sharing the road with all road users.
Materials Available:
Access the DSWW campaign materials, available to download each year in July, via the NETS website at: www.trafficsafety.org.
Key Motorcycle Safety Issues to Address
Based on what’s been known for decades, riders can greatly reduce their own risk levels by following five key safety messages promoted by MSF and NHTSA. When planning a workplace motorcycle safety program, these are the critical issues to incorporate.
- Get trained and obtain a motorcycle operator license.
- Wear USDOT compliant helmets and other protective gear.
- Ride alert and unimpaired by alcohol or other drugs.
- Ride within your limits.
- Be a lifelong learner.
Riders who follow these recommendations are under-represented in motorcycle fatality statistics. Crashes and fatalities would be greatly reduced if all riders adhered to these recommendations.
Materials Available:
NHTSA developed, Motorcycle Safety, a booklet addressing these issues and other useful information. Download the booklet at: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/ motosafety.html
Resource Available:
AMA’s glossary of motorcycle terms for terms unfamiliar to novice riders, at: http://www.ama-cycle.org.
1. Get Trained and Obtain a Motorcycle Operator License
Get Trained
Riding a motorcycle requires special skills and concentration. The more skilled and experienced riders are in traffic; the safer they ride. The best way to develop or improve motorcycle skills and confidence is to participate in rider training classes/workshops. Training is useful for both those who are novice riders and for those who have not ridden recently. Participants can learn the special skills and mental strategies necessary for responsible motorcycle operation. Statistics show that more than 90 percent of riders involved in crashes had no formal training, were self-taught or learned from family and friends.
Motorcycle sales almost quadrupled from 1997 to 2006. This explosion in motorcycle ownership left some states with considerable training shortfalls. There is no model motorcycle operator training or licensing standard. Requirements for licensing and training vary from state to state. Only three states -- Florida, Maine and Rhode Island -- require rider education for all riders, regardless of age.
Resource Available:
To determine the training and licensing requirements in your state, view the database of motorcycle laws by state compiled by the AMA at: http://www.amadirectlink.com/legisltn/laws.asp.
MSF is the premier provider of rider training courses available at over 1,500 sites in all 50 states, including 47 state-legislated programs. The MSF offers a comprehensive curricula system with supporting materials, technical assistance and training-site/training-sponsor standards. Several of the MSF member companies loan training motorcycles through their local retailers.
MSF offers the Basic RiderCourseSM for beginning street riders. The course is a 15-hour program with motorcycles provided. The Experienced RiderCourseSM is a 7-hour rider improvement program for veteran riders to brush up their skills. These are carefully developed training programs taught by MSF-certified Instructors. Graduates of either course may be eligible for discounts on insurance. Some manufacturers pay for MSF RiderCourse training–or reimburse participants with the purchase of a new bike.
Resources Available
MSF courses are available at over 800 recognized training sites nationally. A national toll-free hotline, (800) 446-9227, links callers with the nearest RiderCourse training site in their area.
The Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center has a helpful state-by state list of rider education websites for those seeking rider education classes at: www.motorcyclesafety.state.mn.us/latest/ MMSCHome.asp?cid=2
What Can Employers Do to Promote Motorcycle Training to Their Employees?
- Keep employees aware of the high crash risks associated with riding and of the crash reduction benefits associated with training. This can be accomplished through participation in national motorcycle safety observances and/or other initiatives.
- Promote Rider Training Courses. Organizations may provide motorcycle training to their employees or provide employees with the contact information for organizations that provide motorcycle rider training and education.
- Contact the MSF or other local providers to speak to your employee-riders about training courses and options. Consider providing an incentive to employees for completing course.
Obtain a Motorcycle Operator License
All 50 states require motorcycle riders to obtain a special license or endorsement to operate a motorcycle on public streets and highways, yet approximately 20 percent of the national motorcycle population is not properly licensed according to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. Many motorcyclists drive without valid licenses. In 2006, 25 percent of operators in fatal motorcycle crashes did not have a valid motorcycle license, compared to 13 percent of drivers of passenger vehicles.
Motorcycle licensing requirements vary widely by state. Motorcycle dealers or state licensing departments can provide the details for getting a motorcycle license in your state. Across the country, the minimum age for a motorcycle license/endorsement ranges from 14 to 18. Unlike automobile drivers, motorcyclists in at least 33 states may have licensing tests waived for completion of an MSF RiderCourse.
Resources Available:
There are several websites that have state-by-state information on motorcycle-licensing procedures.
The AMA at: http://www.amadirectlink.com/legisltn/laws.asp
The NCSL at: http://www.ncsl.org/programs/transportation/ trafsafdb.cfm?action=billresults
What Can Employers Do to Promote Operator Licensing for Their Employees?
- Invite speakers knowledgeable about your state’s licensing requirements to present at a lunch and learn program. Contact the state highway safety office, the licensing agency, local dealerships, the MSF, etc.
- Obtain written information, preferably from your state licensing agency and disseminate it to employees who ride.
- Proper clothing, including gloves, boots, long pants, and a durable long-sleeved jacket.
- Eye and face protection. Ride with a face shield or goggles for eye protection and good visibility.
When properly fitted, appropriate motorcycle gear provides the comfort that allows riders to focus on their technique and what’s on the road ahead. It has been suggested that regardless of the season of year, always dress for the fall when you ride. With a car, you literally step into the safety equipment. With a motorcycle, you put on your safety equipment, which will help minimize impact and abrasion injuries if you do happen to have a crash. The advanced riding gear readily available today can dramatically reduce injuries in a crash situation.
For further information on helmets, see Motorcycle Helmets for All Riders or State Motorcycle Laws.
What Can Employers Do to Promote Helmet Use and Other Safety Gear for Their Employees?
3. Ride Alert and Unimpaired by Alcohol or Other Drugs
Alcohol is a greater risk factor for fatal crashes involving motorcycles than for other vehicle types. One in 4 automobile driver fatalities in the United States were alcohol-related during 2005. In comparison, a higher proportion of motorcycle rider fatalities (1 in 3) were related to alcohol in the same year.
Programs addressing motorcycle safety should include an impaired motorcyclist component.
Resources Available:
The MSF includes a module on impaired driving in its basic rider education course. The module emphasizes the effects of alcohol on the rider, the ability to maintain control of the motorcycle while under the influence, and the consequences of riding under the influence.
NHTSA developed the 2008 Drunk Riding Prevention Motorcycle Safety Planner, containing materials and tools designed to remind motorcyclists to always ride smart and sober. These materials can be used to support your motorcycle safety initiatives. They are available online to download at: http://www.nhtsa.gov/planners/ DrunkRidingPrevention2008/index.cf
What Can Employers Do to Promote Sober Driving for Their Employees?
4. Ride Within Your Limits
Motorcyclists, like other motorists have a wide range in their skill levels. In rider training classes, riders are taught not to let other motorists or riders dictate their pace: slow down when conditions call for it, never ride faster or farther than their abilities can handle, and stop riding before becoming fatigued.
5. Be a Lifelong Learner
Some of the best, safest riders take a refresher course every year. Every six months is preferred. These courses reinforce how to ride well, maintain sharp skills and put them into practice.
Resource Available:
MSF endeavors to make motorcycling safer, and more enjoyable, by ensuring access to lifelong quality education and training for current and prospective riders, and by advocating a safer riding environment. Their Rider Education and Training System promotes lifelong-learning for motorcyclists. The MSF website at: www.msf-usa.org, will help your employees find an MSF RiderCourse in their community.
Partner With Motorcycle Safety Advocates
- American Motorcyclist Association (AMA)
Founded in 1924, the AMA has a history of pursuing, protecting and promoting the interests of the motorcycle enthusiasts. The AMA focuses on rights, riding and racing through its government relations work, by sanctioning road and off-road riding activities and overseeing professional and amateur racing events. The AMA's headquarters in Pickerington, Ohio, is also home to the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. The AMA site lists motorcycle laws for each state and a glossary of motorcycle terms.
Site: http://www.ama-cycle.org
- Discover Today's Motorcycling (DTM)
The MIC's Discover Today's Motorcycling program provides various services to the news media and also provides consumers with information on motorcycling. DTM is the resource on motorcycling for American news media, providing background, interviews, photography and fielding hundreds of inquiries each year.
Site: www.motorcycles.org
- Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center (MMSC)
Minnesota has a one-stop shop for rider training information, public information and educational materials, testing and licensing information, and riding safety tips. The MMSC has information and resources of interest to those outside Minnesota. The site contains a state-by state list of rider education websites.
Site: www.motorcyclesafety.state.mn.us/latest/MMSC Home.asp?cid=2
- Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)
The MSF is a national, not-for-profit organization sponsored by U.S. manufacturers and distributors of BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio/Vespa, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha motorcycles. MSF has set internationally recognized standards of excellence in motorcycle rider education and training. The organization partners with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), state governments, the military and other organizations to improve motorcyclist education, training and operator licensing and to make the nation's streets and highways safer for motorcyclists.
Site: http://www.msf-usa.org
- Motorcycle Industry Council, Inc (MIC)
MIC is a not-for-profit, national trade association created to promote and preserve motorcycling and the U.S. motorcycle industry. More than 300 members represent manufacturers and distributors of motorcycles, scooters, parts and accessories, as well as allied trades such as publishing, insurance and consultants. Dealers, clubs and individuals are not eligible for membership. The council is involved in activities in government relations, statistics, communications, technical, and aftermarket programs. The MIC also provides data and other resources; such as test information, news updates, to non-members.
Site: www.mic.org
- National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators (SMSA)
The SMSA is dedicated to serving the needs and interests of state motorcycle safety administrators and programs by advocating motorcycle safety and fostering and promoting the exchange of ideas and resources. The association is comprised of individuals and organizations that coordinate the motorcycle safety programs at the state level joined by other professional organizations, corporations, instructors, and individuals. The SMSA fosters and promotes state-administered motorcycle safety programs and represents state concerns relating to motorcycle safety by working cooperatively with those individuals and organizations having an interest in motorcycle safety.
Site: http://www.smsa.org/
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
NHTSA is the arm of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) that is responsible for establishing guidelines and regulations regarding transportation safety. To learn more about NHTSA’s motorcycle safety initiatives and resources, visit online.
Site: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/portal/site/nhtsa/menuitem.d 7975d55e8abbe089ca8e410dba046a0/
- Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS)
NETS is a national, nonprofit organization located in the Washington, DC metro area. It is a public/private partnership that engages employers of all sizes and industry-types in seeking, developing, and expanding best practices in traffic safety. It is the only organization dedicated exclusively to traffic safety in the workplace. NETS’ mission is to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries within the nation's workforce by developing safety policies, workplace informational and training programs, safety campaigns, and corporate community activities. The organization is known for its annual Drive Safely Work Week campaign to focus the nation's employers and the media on key traffic safety issues. For more information, visit NETS online.
Site: http://www.trafficsafety.org
RTW is a national, Minnesota-based 501(c)(4) advocacy organization that that annually sponsors Ride to Work Day on the 3rd Wednesday of July to promote motorcycles and scooters as an economical, efficient, and socially responsible form of mobility. Its annual RTW Day, (July 16 in 2008.) the United States' largest motorcycle event by number of participants, is designed to increase awareness of motorcyclists among other road users. The organization encourages motorcycle commuting by increasing awareness of motorcycling as a transportation alternative. For more information and to access free materials, visit RWD online.
Site: http://www.ridetowork.org
- State Highway Safety Offices (SHSO)
Each state has a comprehensive highway safety program that includes a motorcycle safety program that aims to reduce motorcycle crashes and related deaths and injuries. State motorcycle safety programs address the use of helmets (meeting Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218) and other protective gear, proper licensing, impaired riding, rider training, conspicuity, and motorist awareness. Contact the SHSO in your state to determine materials and services available to your organization on motorcycle safety. Visit the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) website or a list of SHSO offices.
Site: http://www.ghsa.org/html/links/highwaysafetywebsites.html
