Potential riders can now sign a contract with concerned friends and family that confirms they will ride safely, seek training, wear all the safety gear, ride sober and try to avoid crashes.
The “Contract for Safety” is an initiative of the American Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
In some ways, it resembles the award-winning Australian road safety initiative Fatality Free Friday where motorists announce their intention to drive safely.
However, this contract is strictly for motorcyclists, recognising the particular vulnerability of the rider and their higher incidence of being involved in a crash.
The Contract for Safety was previously available only on the Apple iTunes Store to purchasers of MSF’s Rider Choices iBook, but can now be downloaded from MSF’s website here.
The contract is a discussion tool designed to help a prospective motorcycle riders have a serious conversation with concerned friends or family members.
“Avoiding crashes on a motorcycle requires not only being aware of the risks in traffic, but also managing those risks,” the MSF says.
“With the contract, the motorcyclist can review each of the key elements known to contribute to safety, initial each one in the presence of a friend or family member, and by signing the document and having the witness countersign it, affirm his or her intent to make wise choices when riding, with the overarching goal of reducing crashes.
“The contract’s safety elements include getting trained, wearing a full set of safety gear on each ride, riding unimpaired, and keeping one’s motorcycle in excellent condition.”
The MSF describes motorcycling as “serious fun” and says it is not for everyone as some people lack the abilities or judgment required for safe riding.
The non-profit organisation promotes safety through rider training and education, operator licensing tests, and public information programs. Their training standards have been recognised worldwide since 1973.
For Americans interested in safety information or enrolling in a RiderCourse, visit their website or call (800) 446-9227.