General Headquarters — Columbus, Ohio

For Immediate Release: July 7, 2006
Contact: OSHP - Lt. Rick Zwayer or Sgt. Jon Gray (614) 752-2792
American Motorcyclist Association - Tom Lindsay (614) 856-1900 ext. 1357

Getting trained and licensed are keys to safe motorcycling
Patrol encourages all motorcyclists to Ride Smart

COLUMBUS – Simple things like proper training, wearing the proper safety equipment, and having a valid motorcycle operator’s license are among the best and easiest ways to ensure safe motorcycling.

As part of our Ride Smart. Drive Smart. partnership with the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), the Ohio State Highway Patrol recommends the following on getting training, safety equipment, and licensing:

• Ride trained – Getting motorcycle rider training is of great value to beginners and experienced riders to learn about motorcycle operation and how to reduce the risk of riding a motorcycle. Information about motorcycle training is available through the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Motorcycle Ohio office at 1-800-83-RIDER, or on the Web at www.motorcycle.ohio.gov, or at select motorcycle dealerships.
• Ride licensed – Motorcyclists are urged to get licensed and ensure their license remains valid. A temporary motorcycle learner's permit may be purchased at any license agency statewide. To get a motorcycle license, individuals can contact a driver license examination station to make an appointment for the on-cycle examination.

The Patrol also is reminding all motorcyclists riding a motorcycle takes balance, coordination, strength, motor skills, and stamina. With age many of these characteristics begin to diminish and reaction times tend to slow down. Regular medical checkups ensure you are physically able to safely ride a motorcycle.

Safe motorcycling requires awareness by other vehicle drivers that motorcycles are on the road. Ohio crash statistics for 2005 show 1,524 motorcycle-involved crashes were caused by non-motorcycle drivers, including 44 fatal crashes.

• Signaling your intentions – Before making a turn or a lane change, use your turn signals to alert other roadway users. All motorists, especially motorcyclists, appreciate knowing your intentions.
• Creating some space – Skilled motorcyclists are safe operators. Give them room to maneuver, and avoid tailgating.
• Avoiding driver distractions – Any activity inside a motor vehicle can distract the driver enough to cause a crash. Driving is not a part-time job.

Ride Smart. Drive Smart. themes to help motorcyclists and other drivers share the road safely are:

• Ride Trained (including knowing proper safety gear to wear)/Ride Licensed;
• Ride Sober (incorporating the AMA’s national Ride Straight program); and
• Other drivers be aware by looking out for motorcyclists.

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Note to editors: For more information about the American Motorcyclist Association, visit www.AMADirectlink.com or call 1-800-AMA-JOIN. For more information on Ride Smart. Drive Smart. visit, www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/motorcycle.htm.

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