Motorcycle Safety Course on Fort Bragg

Riding a motorcycle on post is a privilege. The Provost Marshall office on Fort Bragg means serious business when they mandate that all service members attend the motorcycle safety course.

According to the USASOC Safety Office, within fiscal year 2010 there have been nine motorcycle accidents, compared to 13 accidents last year at the same time. There have been no fatalities this year, compared to one fatality at this time last year.

Upon approval from your chain of command registration can be completed online. A calendar of available classes is listed, but dates can be requested. Saturday courses are offered.

Training motorcycles are available at no cost for service members taking the Basic Riders Course (BRC) along with a helmet and gloves. Each rider is responsible for providing shatter proof eye protection, sturdy over the ankle boots and no skin below the chin - and your reflective belt or vest.  

The motorcycle must be street legal, have a valid state license (learners permit to attend BRC and an endorsement to attend ERC, you can attend BRC with an endorsement) and proof of current insurance

Reasons for being turned away from class include:

•     Not having the 4 items required to Check-In - listed on FAQ page. (What paperwork do I need to bring?)
•     arriving late - maps on Key Locations page
•     needing gas
•     worn tires - bald, underinflated, cord showing,
•     not wearing proper protective equipment
•     weak battery
•     improper display of license plate - must be seen from 50' and have a white light
•     mirrors not mounted on both sides

An article in the Army Times printed July 7, 2009 stated that the number of servicemembers injured and hospitalized in motorcycle accidents increased by more than 100 from 2007 to 2008, and deaths increased by 18 over the same period. 

Rising to the challenge of meeting these requirements is USAJFKSWCS safety manager, Cathy Shank, a motorcyclist herself who understands both the thrills and risks of riding. In conjunction with other USASOC safety offices, Shank has put together a team of N.C. state and nationally certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation Rider Coaches. 
These coaches are Soldiers and civilians from all elements of the command.