Motorcycle crashes often cause brain injuries, broken bones, damage to internal organs, and deep cuts and lacerations that can lead to deadly infections.

Take a Motorcycle Rider Safety Course

In North Dakota in 2022, 12.5% or all reported motorcycle crashes resulted in death. Taking a rider safety course could save your life.

In partnership with ABATE of North Dakota, the North Dakota Motorcycle Safety Program (NDMSP) offers beginner and experienced rider courses. In addition to teaching you techniques and maneuvers to stay safe on the road, they also provide great tips on bike maintenance and checking your T-CLOCS. Check them out at ndmps.com.
 

Learn how the NDMSP courses saved the life of motorist, Bob Haas.
 

Wear All The Gear, All The Time (ATGATT)

1. Helmet
   Reduce your risk of serious head injuries by wearing a U.S. DOT standard-approved helmet every time you ride. The helmet will be labeled with manufacturer information on the inside and a sticker on the back that reads “DOT.” If it appears to be made cheaply, it could be counterfeit.
   
   Always replace your helmet if you have been in a crash or even if you drop your helmet.
    
2. Face Protection
   Your full-face shield should fit your helmet and should not have curves that distort your vision. During the day, use a tinted face shield, but always use a clear shield at night.
   
   Do not depend on goggles only or your motorcycle’s windshield. These will not be sufficient to protect your face while riding.
    
3. Riding Suit or Jacket/Pants
   A well-made riding suit or jacket/pants combo will keep you comfortable and significantly reduce your chance of serious injury. Choose quality padded leather or abrasion-resistant fabric such as ballistic nylon. Get even more protection with built-in or add-on body armor, spine protectors and kidney belts.
   
   Never have loose fitting sleeves or pants, long scarves or wide collars that can flap excessively in the wind or get caught in the moving parts of your motorcycle.
    
4. Boots
   Your boots should be sturdy and above ankle with wide, slip-resistant soles to keep your feet on the pegs. Proper boots will protect you from engine burns and flying rocks and minimize foot and ankle injury in the event of a crash. Choose waterproof footwear for rain and extra insulation.
    
5. Gloves
   Motorcycle gloves with full fingers will protect your hands from sun, wind, weather and abrasions. Make sure your gloves fit well, as bulky gloves can affect your ability to operate the brakes or keep your grip on the handlebars.
    
6. Rain Gear
   Rain gear is not only for comfort, but also for keeping you alert and ready to react to road hazards. Most motorcycle rain suits have a high, close-fitting collar, snug sleeves and pants cuffs and stirrups. The bright, visible colors will help you remain visible in inclement weather. For added protection, consider rain-proof gloves and boot covers.
    
7. Hearing Protection
   Don’t forget to protect your hearing from wind and engine noise. Choose either disposable or reusable hearing protection that allows you to hear vehicle horns and nearby vehicles.

Motoryclists - Here's what you can do:

Gear up. Use full protective gear, including a helmet.