News Release #1

FROM: Thompson Communications, Inc.
2042 Arapahoe Street
Denver, Colorado 80205
(303) 292-1150
Contact: Miriam Thompson

FOR:  National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators

4/13/98 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1.1 MILLION MOTORCYCLISTS AT RISK

INCREASING NUMBER OF LICENSED RIDERS TO BE FOCUS OF MOTORCYCLE SAFETY EVENTS IN MAY

Motorcycle riders who are not properly licensed are not just putting themselves but also their motorcycles at increased risk, according to the National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators (SMSA). As motorcycle enthusiasts recognize Motorcycle Safety Month this May, SMSA warns the nation’s 5.5 million riders of the dangers they may encounter if they are one of the 20% of the national motorcycle population who are not appropriately licensed.

"Although the increased chances of a crash for unlicensed riders remains a concern for those of us in the public safety arena, the motorcyclists themselves should be aware of the consequences to their motorcycle and pocketbook," said Karen Kadar, SMSA spokesperson. In addition to having their motorcycle towed and impounded, unlicensed riders will be ticketed, fined and have points assessed against their drivers license. They will be liable for storage charges, alternate transportation costs and increased insurance premiums.

The statistics for unlicensed riders are grim, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation data, with about 35% of fatal crash victims being unlicensed or improperly licensed. This group is over-represented in fatal crashes by more than 100% nationally and as much as 400% in some states, according to SMSA.

"These numbers are staggering but easily preventable through education and training," said Kadar. "With all 50 states requiring motorcycle riders to be licensed and most offering training courses that expedite that process, there is no excuse for operating
a motorcycle illegally," she explained. The cost of the training course ranges from free to $250 and the average time requirement is 15 hours.

SMSA reports enforcement of licensing is becoming an increased priority in many states, with local and state police identifying, apprehending and prosecuting unlicensed and improperly licensed motorcycle riders. "Unlicensed riders who feel the risk of getting caught is non-existent will be shocked when they are pulled over and their bike strapped to a tow sling," said Kadar. "Even if they are willing to accept the increased risk, the potential damage to their bike resulting from being towed or impounded is reason enough to get licensed."

The National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators is an educational organization created to promote state-sponsored motorcycle rider education programs. Created in 1984, SMSA membership includes 45 states, eleven corporations and three professional/non-profit organizations. The Association provides guidance in planning and implementing statewide safety programs.

News Release #2

FROM: Thompson Communications, Inc.
2042 Arapahoe Street
Denver, Colorado 80205
(303) 292-1150
Contact: Miriam Thompson

FOR: National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators

4/13/98 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TRAINING COURSE IMPROVES MOTORCYCLING SKILLS

With a motorcycle operator endorsement or motorcycle operator license required in all 50 states, many motorcyclists are finding state-sponsored training courses as an attractive way to expedite the licensing process. A motorcycle rider course teaches the basics of riding a motorcycle and improves the participant’s knowledge and skill in proper vehicle operation.

Standardized courses taught across the country provide consistent training from nationally certified instructors. Students participate in on-cycle sessions which teach the basics of riding in a straight line, turning, shifting and stopping. Advanced techniques for braking, cornering and swerving are also covered. Classroom sessions introduce students to the risks involved in motorcycle riding and address the issues of protective gear, street strategies, alcohol and drug use, and special situations encountered in motorcycling.

"Although graduation from a motorcycle safety course will not automatically result in an operator’s endorsement or license, it usually removes at least one step," explains Karen Kadar, chairperson of the National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators (SMSA). Kadar also says motorcyclists will find the licensing process much more convenient when they take the training course. "In many states, graduates will receive a waiver from the state skill test," says Kadar, "leaving only the fee and license photo to be handled at the state motor vehicle office." The training course reduces dual testing for graduates by allowing them to forgo a mandatory state licensing test.

"The training course is ideal for those just entering the world of motorcycling, allowing them to experience the popular sport before investing in expensive equipment and accessories," says Kadar. Because most training courses provide motorcycles for participants, a rookie can learn to ride and not even own a bike.

SMSA recommends motorcyclists who aren't properly licensed to investigate the training programs available in their community. "Everyone can benefit from a training course," says Kadar. "Lower insurance premiums, reduced likelihood of being in a crash and greater skill and confidence on the road are great incentives for taking a motorcycle rider course," says Kadar.

The National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators is an educational organization created to promote state-sponsored motorcycle rider education programs. Created in 1984, SMSA membership includes 45 states, eleven corporations and three professional/non-profit organizations. The Association provides guidance in planning and implementing statewide safety programs.