I.M.S.C. Safety Doctrine

One of the leading causes of motorcycle injuries and deaths is speeding. Fortunately, motorcycle fatalities have decreased over 50 percent since 1985 due to implementation of a rider education program, improved licensing and testing, and increased public education. Nevertheless, there were over 65,000 accidents and 2,000 fatalities in 1996. The clubs that make up the IMSC are and must stay a strong advocate of Safety. Several clubs that are a part of the IMSC have lost members to motorcycle and car accidents. Losing a member can have an everlasting devastation on a club and its members. Most members of clubs form a family bond, and just like when you lose a family member you may moan that lost for the rest of your life.

The IMSC does not govern the basic operations and functions of the clubs that form the council, but the members of these clubs must understand the importance of Safety. As leaders of your perspective clubs it is your duty to ensure the Safety of your members. Some simple steps to ensuring the Safety of your riders:

Licensing

Many times you hear riders say “I’ve been riding for 5 years or more and I don’t have a M class license.” Numerous people have driven cars and rode motorcycles without a valid license for years without consequence, but the truth in the matter is members that have state issued licenses have met the minimum requirements by the state to operate a motorcycle. Again these are the minimum requirements but this ensures that the rider has basic skills. Many riders can get on a bike and ride but do they really know what they are doing. Will they panic in hazardous situation? Do they know what to do in an emergency? Do they have the experience to avoid an accident? Also, members that have valid M class license are less inclined to run from the police. Numerous injuries and deaths occur during police chases.

Riding In Groups

Group riding is a common situation and also one of the most hazardous situations on a motorcycle. Remember that riding in a group does not mean you surrender any decision making when it comes to your safety. Ride your own ride, and don't go any faster than you feel comfortable going. The first thing you want to do is organize the ride. This can be as informal as standing around in a parking lot, or as complicated as a special meeting to hand out maps and cell phone numbers. It is very important to know where the rider next to you is going to turn or the rider in front of you is going to stop. One rider falling in a group can take the entire group down with him/her. As a group or a solo rider it is equally important to pay attention to other groups. When approaching another group, their unexpected turn or stop can cause an accident so be sure to leave enough distance to stop and always leave yourself an out. Want more group-riding tips for your club or group, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation has a guide to Group Riding video at the Motorcycle Safety Foundation website, cost is $15.00 for a video and a handbook, and there is tons of information on the internet. Other clubs or riders with additional years of experience is another outlet for information.

Hand Signals

It is very important to learn motorcycle hand signals. Riding 80 mph on the expressway, it is very difficult to speak to someone and tell them that they left their signal on or get off at the next exit. So for Safety, it is very important to be able to communicate while riding. Within your club it is important to develop signals that your club will use as well as some commonly used universal hand signals.
Awareness. It is a common fact that 98% of the Biker Community drinks, but it is the duty of the leader of the club to ensure that the members drink responsibly. It is also a scientific fact that it takes the average human body 1 hour to pass 1 drink through its system.
The above is for informational purposes. The Illinois Motor Sport Council promotes Safety and Unity in the Motor Sport Community. If you would like assistance with Safety Practices within your organization please feel free to contact any member of the IMSC Board.