(Editor's note: This news release is being sent through the Iowa DOT's email system in conjunction with the Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau release of the same information.)
Des Moines, Iowa - April 25, 2024 - May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) and the Iowa Department of Transportation are partnering to bring attention to a rising trend in motorcycle fatalities and encourage riders to be prepared and protected.
In Iowa, motorcycles make up just 4% of all registered vehicles and 0.33% of all vehicle miles traveled. Yet, in 2023, motorcycle fatalities accounted for 16% of total fatalities.
Similar to the way seat belts provide a level of protection for enclosed vehicle passengers, helmets are a simple and effective way to reduce the likelihood of injury or death for those on two wheels. According to data from the past five years, 74% of people killed on motorcycles in Iowa, were NOT wearing a helmet, while the national average is 38%. Iowa is one of three states in the country with NO helmet laws.
Additionally, the completion of a rider education and training course can increase confidence as a rider and ensure a safer riding experience. According to A.B.A.T.E. of Iowa’s website, a motorcycle rider’s judgment is critical. In single-vehicle crashes, rider error is the most common cause. Crashes with other vehicles also occur because either one or both operators make errors in judgment. Many collisions and injuries could have been avoided if the motorcycle rider had known when and how to swerve or brake.
Iowa’s Motorcycle Rider Education (MRE) Program includes two levels of basic rider courses for new riders and a returning rider course for those who have ridden in the past but haven’t been on a bike in several years. All three courses include time on a motorcycle to apply the following skills:
- Mental preparedness
- Perception development
- Situational awareness
- Risk evaluation and evasive strategies
- Basics such as riding in a straight line, turning, shifting, and stopping.
Courses are offered across the state. Find a course today.
Whether you are on two wheels, four wheels, or more, it’s everyone’s responsibility to practice safe habits and Share the Road.
Contacts:
- Colleen Powell, Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau at 515-725-6033 or email cpowell@dps.state.ia.us
- Vania Boyd, Iowa DOT Rider Education at 515-567-0145 or email Vania.Boyd@iowadot.us