101 Critical Days of Summer: Motorcycle safety Published Aug. 28, 2008 By Safe T. Guru 43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- There he was...Bill was out and about riding his Harley on a terrific fall afternoon. The sun was warm, the sky was clear as he cruised through the countryside. Bill was well-versed in motorcycle safety and always employed his safety training while riding. He was a long-time rider with more than 15 years experience and knew the importance of proper gear and a well-maintained bike. Today was no exception. Bill wore the proper equipment: an approved helmet with a face shield, brightly colored clothing and proper shoes and gloves. His lights were on and he was on the lookout for any hazards. He was enjoying his ride and decided to make a sweep through town before heading home for dinner to catch the skyline of the city before the afternoon turned to evening. As Bill reached the outskirts of town, he noticed that traffic was slightly heavier and became a little more defensive in his driving. He drove along the riverfront and made his way into the heart of downtown. He found himself alone approaching a green traffic light. Suddenly and unexpectedly, a vehicle turned into his path from the opposite direction. Bill impacted the vehicle in the passenger door at approximately 30 miles per hour. He left the bike, flew over the top of the car, and landed on the opposite side rolling and skidding to a painful stop. Bill didn't remember much of the accident as he awoke in his hospital bed. His injuries were extensive, including a broken back and several cuts and abrasions. His recovery was long and painful, but eventually Bill did recover after a couple of years of intensive therapy. Unfortunately, his injuries ended his career as a military aviator and will forever affect his life. Bill was doing everything right and still almost lost his life because the other guy wasn't paying attention at a traffic light. We've all been there when it comes to distractions while driving -- kids crying, cell phone ringing or tuning the radio. We've all seen the motorcycle next to us tear out from the stoplight and speed away, or we've all "not seen" the motorcycle when we pulled out in front of it. We share responsibility to keep each other safe, and not just during this final weekend of the 101 Critical Days of Summer, but year round. It takes all of us doing our part. We all have a responsibility to act responsibly behind the wheel, on a motorcycle, or as a pedestrian/jogger. I've observed behavior over the past couple of weeks that causes me significant concern right here on Pope. Here are a few examples: excessive speed, failure to fully stop at stop signs, people walking/jogging with ( not against) traffic (many with ear phones), speeding up to beat traffic lights, failure to remove ear phones when crossing roadways, aggressive driving, failure to use seatbelts, and motorcyclists' failure to wear proper safety gear. Your safety team cannot correct every situation, but with your help, we can make a positive difference. Please think of Bill and his situation the next time you're out there on your bike, jogging or walking on the roadway, or behind the wheel of your car. We need every one of you to perform the mission, so I ask you to do your part by observing traffic laws, driving defensively and always wearing your safety belts/equipment. Together, we can make a difference right here in our community. Stay Safe and enjoy your Labor Day weekend.