JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
More than 200 service members, dependents and civilians stationed here who drive motorcycles attended the annual Motorcycle Safety Day, April 29, 2016, at Joint Base Charleston, S.C.
The annual event consisted of a briefing held by the 628th Air Base Wing safety office, a blessing of the bikes, a demonstration from the North Charleston Police Department and awards for the best detailed bikes around. The annual briefing is required by AFI 91-207, for all active duty Air Force motorcyclists.
"There are many dangers on the open road to watch for as a motorcycle rider," said James McMurray, 628th ABW traffic safety manager. "The number one cause of motorcycle mishaps is single vehicle accidents. However, there are many other dangers such as inattentive drivers, animals, bad weather, bridges and even sand."
The briefing covered other topics such as risk management, licensing requirement, personal protective equipment, training requirements and mentorship programs.
"The briefing was full of useful information and statics about the responsibilities of being a motorcycle rider," said Senior Airman Joshua Westbrook, a 628th Communications Squadron radio frequency transmission systems technician. "Driving a motorcycle in Charleston is a unique experience, with the older roads and the heavy traffic. The motorcycle safety team here does an excellent job ensuring we are safe out there."
After the briefing Chaplin Capt. Norman Jones blessed the bikes and prayed for the riders to stay safe during this year's riding season. Participants of the event joined together for a group ride led by the Green Knights, military motorcycle group.
The event concluded with free lunch at a local motorcycle dealership.
"We hosted this event to ensure riders are on their toes and are aware of the dangers out on the road," McMurry said. "Ride safe."
For those motorcycle riders who were unable to attend, please contact your unit's motorcycle safety representative for a link to this year's annual briefing.