Air Force officials poised to take part in Pentagon Motorcycle Safety Event

5/6/2010 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- On May 7 and 8, Airmen here can participate in a joint motorcycle safety event in the Pentagon's parking lot. This event will feature riding exhibitions, freestyle shows, bike inspections and instruction opportunities to educate participants on the fundamentals of motorcycle safety.

The primary goal of the event is to curtail the "Spring Spike" of preventable accidents and prepare for the Critical Days of Summer campaign.

As the weather improves during the spring and summer months, officials see a rise in Airmen fatalities corresponding to increased participation in outdoor activities. According to Maj. Gen. Frederick Roggero, Air Force chief of safety, "during the Spring Spike, the uptick in mishaps is typically associated with reckless behavior, which includes excessive speed, high risk maneuvers, failure to wear protective equipment and excessive alcohol."

In a recent memorandum, Air Force Secretary Michael Donley and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz wrote, "Our goal is zero fatalities in preventable private motor vehicle mishaps." To accomplish this goal, Air Force safety officials urge Airmen to operate motor vehicles in a responsible manner to include wearing seatbelts, obeying posted speed limits and avoiding distractions while driving.

According to Col. Roberto Guerrero, Air Force Safety Center vice commander, there were 11 fatalities involving private motor vehicles between March 1, 2009, and May 22, 2009. Of those, eight involved motorcycles. Colonel Guerrero emphasized education and training are essential, and the key to success is encouraging every Airman to develop a 24-7 safety mindset.

"It is critical to evaluate potential consequences before every decision we make," Colonel Guerrero said. "There are countless examples of Airmen who drove their motorcycle too fast, lost control and fatally injured themselves or someone else. In order to mitigate risk and save lives, we need to enforce personal risk management and ensure every Airman complies with the rules."

Colonel Guerrero described the up-coming motorcycle event as "an excellent venue to refresh motorcycle safety awareness and engage motorcycle riders in the National Capital Region."

"We're looking forward to great event and ask for your participation and support," he said.