Motorcycle Crashes: Why They Happen and How Motorcycle Ohio Training Can Save Lives
I had the pleasure of being asked to present at the Ohio Traffic Safety Summit on the topic of motorcyclist safety. I spoke alongside Susan Rzepka, my peer and fellow Chief Instructor for Motorcycle Ohio. Guests included law enforcement officers, traffic safety educators, public health officials, transportation planners and engineers, policy makers, government representatives and various community members and advocacy groups. It also allowed indivuals who attended to earn a CPT credit hour.
Ohio continues to see more than 4,000 motorcycle involved crashes each year, with preventable factors like speeding, impairment, and failure to yield contributing to the majority of serious injuries and fatalities. This session covered the data behind crashes and how Motorcycle Ohio’s curriculum is built to address the mental and physical skills that can help prevent crashes and save lives.
As a lifelong motorcyclist and Chief Instructor for Motorcycle Ohio, I’ve spoken at numerous regional and national events about what Ohio is doing to spread awareness and improve motorcyclist safety.
Both Susan and I believe in facilitating, rather than lecturing. Our presentations are highly interactive. We included group activities, engaging video clips, as well as small and large group discussions, to get participants to think critically and apply the topics to their work and life.
Our goals were to:
- Help non-riders and road safety professionals understand motorcyclist vulnerabilities and training opportunities
- Provide insight into some of the actionable strategies taught in Motorcycle Ohio’s Basic Riding Skills (BRS) course
- Renew our commitment to share Ohio’s roadways
“This summit brings together passionate professionals, dedicated advocates, and committed individuals who strive to make our roads safer for every traveler. Heather is someone who embodies that dedication and expertise. She is not just an instructor—she is a lifelong rider, a leader, and a relentless advocate for motorcyclist safety. With over a decade of experience teaching for Motorcycle Ohio and a lifetime of riding since the age of five, she understands firsthand the importance of proper training, awareness, and responsibility on the road.
