May Day 2000

The billboards go a long way towards helping the public be aware that weíre out there, but itís also important for us to know how to survive in a potentially hostile environment.

To that end, more and more motorcyclists, and potential motorcyclists, are getting trained ñ theyíre taking the star course. In fact, over 3,000 Idahoans have taken the star courses since we started in 1996. Already this year weíve trained 300 to ride or help fine-tune their skills.

The courses have become very popular, and, unfortunately, we do have a backlog. So, if you are thinking of taking one of the courses, donít delay ñ theyíre filling up fast! We are trying to add additional classes on a space available basis.

Iíd like to tak this opportunity to introduce to you some of the dedicated star instructors that give up as many as 16 weekends during the riding season to share their expertise with others. Without them, we wouldnít have a program. Have instructors wave

Is it working? Well, you decide. Since we started training 4 short years ago, our motorcycle accidents have dropped 24%, injuries are down 26%, and fatals are down 33%. In fact, Idaho has the lowest motorcyclist fatality rate in the nation. Weíre doing our part. Weíre taking care of our own.

So, is the public doing their part? Well, it could be better! Research shows that 75% of motorcyclist fatalities involve another vehicle ñ and of those, 2 out of every 3 were the fault of the other driver.

Billboards help, but we need the media to help reach the public. Itís refreshing to see the media here today in support of our awareness campaign. Cooperatively, we can make our roads safer for everyone, and thatís a good thing.

But be aware: there are others that donít seem to care that weíre out there. Itís up to us to carry the burden of the apathy of others.

The bottom line is this: we canít depend on others for our safety. We need the skills necessary to be able to survive in an environment that is less than friendly to motorcyclists.

So, if you havenít taken one of the courses, please consider it ñ it could save your life! It will at least make motorcycling more enjoyable ñ if thatís possible!

I wish you all a wonderful, and safe, riding season. Be careful out there!