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Benefits of Taking Oregon Motorcycle Safety Courses

05/09/11

Motorcycle safety courses in Oregon are a great way for beginning and experienced riders to prepare for real-life traffic situations and road conditions. Motorcycles are exciting to ride and can be convenient forms of transportation, however, if a motorcyclist never learns the important skills they need to ride safely, they may be more prone to motorcycle crashes in Oregon.

According to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), motorcycle training helps riders learn more about efficient turning, effective braking, how to avoid obstacles, what protective apparel to select, traffic maneuver strategies, and proper bike maintenance. People interested in learning more about the Basic Rider Training, the Intermediate Rider Training, other rider training, or the TEAM OREGON Motorcycle Safety Program can call TEAM OREGON at (800) 545-9944 or visit http://team-oregon.org/.

A law passed by the 2009 Oregon Legislature requires all new motorcycle riders to take an approved motorcycle safety training course. The requirement is distributed over a five-year period based on age:

  • January 1, 2011 All New Riders 30 and under
  • January 1, 2012 All New Riders 40 and under
  • January 1, 2013 All New Riders 50 and under
  • January 1, 2014 All New Riders 60 and under
  • January 1, 2015 All New Riders of Any Age

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2008, 5,290 motorcyclists died and 96,000 suffered injuries in accidents. While helmets and proper protective gear help reduce a motorcyclist’s chance of suffering serious injury or death, Oregon motorcycle collisions can still have severe consequences since motorcyclists do not have the same level of protection that occupants of large trucks or passenger cars have.

If you or someone you care about has been injured in an Oregon motorcycle crash, get in touch with one of the Portland motorcycle accident attorneys at DuBois Law Group. We have dedicated several years to protecting the rights of accident victims so that they receive compensation for their injuries and losses. Call (503) 222-4411 for more information about your legal rights.