CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Week Five of the 101 Critical Days of Summer series of base safety briefs focuses on Motorcycle Safety.
In the weekly newsletter, base safety officials reminded service members and their families about the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings and driving defensively while using a motorcycle.
“It’s important to drive defensively while riding motorcycles because you are a lot more vulnerable than when driving a car,” said Blaine Bromwell, regional traffic safety manager here. “Marines and Sailors need to be vigilant while riding on the road.”
The newsletter urges motorcycle riders to wear protective gear that are both comfortable and protective. Properly fitted motorcycle gear will not only prevent or reduce injury afflicted in the event of an accident, but will also ensure that the rider is focused on driving the motorcycle instead of being distracted by the uncomfortable gear.
Wearing proper footwear when riding a motorcycle is also essential. Motorcycle footwear is designed to not interfere with the various appendages of a motorcycle.
“You have to dress for the crash and not for the ride,” said Bromwell. “We want Marines and Sailors to be prepared for the worst case scenario and to utilize personal protective equipment that is going to help them out in that instance.”
According to the newsletter, motorcycle fatalities increased by 10 percent from 2014 to 2015 nationwide. However, the Governor’s Highway Safety Association estimated a seven percent decrease during the same time for California.
This decrease is largely attributed to the change of California’s motorcycle curriculum and a comprehensive management program implemented by the State. Some of these curriculums have been adopted by the Marine Corps.
The traffic department of the Camp Pendleton Base Safety Center provides a comprehensive training program to train all levels of motorcycle riders at no cost to Marines, Sailors and contractors.
Marine Corps Order 5100.19F outlines the process and procedures for maintaining a motorcycle program, explaining the level of training needed and providing mentorship in each battalion.
“Force preservation is important,” said Bromwell. “We invest resources in training and mentorship programs so that we can protect our Marines and Sailors while they’re off duty and get them to the fight when they need to.”
For more information visit the link to Base Safety at: http://www.pendleton.marines.mil/StaffAgencies/SafetyCenter.aspx