The Federal Highway Administration's crash causation study is flawed and not happening
Maverick - Jan 26, 2009

 

The total cost of the research project was estimated to be over $5,600,000. Funds were designated by the Federal Government, the motorcycle industry provided the required match, and Oklahoma State University is to implement the research project. I have talked with the designated research lead, Dr. Samir Ahmed of Oklahoma State University, and he informs me that to date, nothing has happened. 

 

Even if the research project had been initiated in a timely way, we would not know the results until the year 2010 or perhaps much later. It would take years to figure out what to do with the findings and how to implement what are known as “countermeasures that will prevent motorcycle crashes from occurring or will lessen the harm resulting from motorcycle crashes.”

 

 

I believe the premise on which the research is to be based, is flawed: “crash causation study” means crashes – fatalities – must happen in sufficient number (950+), then a research team will study those crashes to determine why they happened and countermeasures identified. Then, motorcycle operators will be taught what not to do. 

 

This is all reactive and most accidents happen just for that reason: i.e., motorcycle operators are reacting – or not – to environmental forces. 

 

I propose an alternative for bikers if not for the Crash Causation Study.  Most motorcyclists already do this: i.e., anticipate what can happen and be proactive in safely operating your motorcycle.

 

In this discussion, drivers who are safely putting up mile after mile on motorcycles can identify behaviors that assure that accidents do not happen. Join me; let’s figure this out and pass these insights on to new and experienced motorcycle operators.

 

So, bikers, tell us what you are doing that ensures safe riding. 

 

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