In 2007, one out of every nine road fatalities in the United States involved a motorcycle rider. Motorcycle fatalities now account for 11 percent of total road fatalities and have increased each year over the last decade. KTSRO works to combat the increase in preventable motorcycle fatalities and injuries by providing motorcycle awareness information to both motorcyclists and other motorists on Kansas’ roadways. KTSRO joins the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in its Share the Road campaign to encourage everyone on the road to look out for other motorists, whether they travel on two wheels, four wheels, or more. KTSRO provides motorcycle safety training information and materials to individuals interested in promoting safer roadways for all.
Tips for motorcyclists:
- Before riding, complete a rider's education course and obtain a class "M" endorsement on your driver's license.
- Wear a helmet and eye protection every time you ride. Motorcyclists should also wear bright, thick protective clothing.
- Always ride sober. Operating a motorcycle takes a great deal of mental focus and physical maneuvering, so alcohol or other impairing substances and motorcycles just don't mix.
- Riders should strategically use their lane position to see and be seen on the highway. Motorcyclists should also combine turn signals and hand signals to draw attention to themselves when switching lanes.
Tips for motorists:
- Remember the motorcycle is a vehicle with all the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the highway; always allow a motorcyclist the full lane and never try to share a lane.
- Make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
- Allow more following distance when traveling behind a motorcycle to permit enough time for the rider to maneuver or stop in an emergency. Never tailgate a motorcyclist.
To report problems you experience with roads in Kansas, email here: publicinfo@ksdot.org
Find a training in your area
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers more than 1,500 Rider Course sites throughout the U.S.
In Kansas, successful completion of an approved motorcycle rider's education course allows cyclists to waive the skills test when applying for a class "M" endorsement addition to a driver's license.
