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Requirements keep motorcycle riders visible

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Sarah Hall-Kirchner
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Illinois --  Scott Air Force Base has a specific and important policy in place for those who wish to ride their motorcycles on base.

"This instruction helps maintain a safe operating environment on the roadways of Scott," said Officer Angelo Tunstall, 375th Security Forces Squadron Lead Civilian Police Officer. "The requirement of the brightly colored outer garment in the daytime and reflective material during the hours of darkness, helps other motorists see motorcycle riders."

This instruction implements AFI31-218_IP, "Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision," and conforms to the Illinois Vehicle Code, while making provisions for the needs of traffic supervision at Scott, explained Tunstall. The provisions apply to all persons within the limits of Scott, to include, but not limited to, all military personnel, civilian employees, family members, visitors, and Department of Defense contractors.

It states in section 4.2.1.2.15, "Garment and Motorcycle visibility": Motorcycle riders will wear a brightly colored outer upper garment during the day and a reflective outer upper garment during the night. Outer upper garments shall be visible and not covered. Wearing a backpack is authorized if it is brightly colored and has reflective properties. The following reflective colors are considered sufficiently vivid in color/reflectivity to ensure visibility from a distance: bright red, lime yellow, orange, or lime green. Multi-color leather/cordura motorcycle jackets consisting of fluorescent colors with reflective panels are acceptable as an upper body garment.

Battle dress uniforms (woodland or desert), Airman Battle Uniform, service uniform combinations, and flight suits are not considered brightly colored. Additionally, reflective belts worn around the shoulders or around the waistline do not meet the intent of this instruction. Clothing must meet the following requirements: long sleeves, long pants, sturdy over the ankle footwear (no sandals), and full-fingered gloves.

Airman 1st Class Matthew Hickey, 375th Communications Support Squadron, rides his motorcycle on base and said wearing bright colors just makes sense.

"Brightly colored clothing and reflective gear makes it easier for other drivers to see motorcycles, which can help reduce accidents and save lives."

Tunstall said safety is the bottom line for these regulations at Scott.

"This instruction will help limit accidents involving motorcycles. Remember, we all walk away from minor accidents involving two autos, but that same minor accident involving a motorcycle may result in a motorcyclist being seriously injured."