Mutual Respect: Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists
I had the pleasure of being asked to speak at the Ohio Traffic Safety Summit on the topic of motorcyclist safety. Attendees 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.
Whether you’re in a car or on a motorcycle, the goal is the same: to get where you’re going safely. However, there are unique needs and challenges that come with each type of vehicle. With mutual respect and understanding, this shared space can work for all of us – making the roads safer and more cooperative.
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.
I believe in facilitating, rather than lecturing. My presentations are highly interactive and get participants to think critically and apply the topics to their work and life.
My goals were to:
- Help non-riders and road safety professionals understand motorcyclist vulnerabilities and training opportunities
- Provide actionable strategies for supporting motorcyclist safety through infrastructure, policy, enforcement and education
- Emphasize the importance of shared responsibility and mutual respect on Ohio’s roadways
“Heather’s presentation was by far the best one I attended in this two-day conference. She was an engaging speaker and every single one of her talking points about motorcycle safety was relevant to our shared mission of saving lives and reducing serious injuries on Ohio’s streets and roads.”
“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.
