Harry S. Truman Sailors highlighted safety during the 4th annual Motorcycle Rodeo through Hampton Roads for 97 miles July 28.

According to Virginia's Department of Motor Vehicle, 1,778 motorcycle related injuries were reported in 2014.
Truman's Motorcycle Safety Coordinator, Chief Aviation Maintenance Administrationman S. R. Tiggs said events like these are aimed at reducing these accidents.
The motorcycle rodeo paired junior riders with experienced riders to share best practices of motorcycle safety, proper personal protective wear inspections and motorcycle inspections.

Tiggs said the motorcycle rodeo was a success because it allowed Sailors to practice safe riding without any incidents.

"All riders took the advance riders courses but practicing the fundamentals is what makes the material stick," said Tiggs. "The command allowed us to take a day to practice what we learned and use operational risk management."

Tiggs said the riders reviewed safety techniques and practiced single riding and group riding formation while sharing personal experiences.

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class J. Soto, an experienced rider, said the rodeo is a hands-on experience that benefits any rider.

"Motorcycle safety is a big issue and having a day dedicated to learning how to prevent incidents by sharing situations and different technique is a proactive approach," said Soto.

Legalman 1st Class M. T. Thomas, an experienced rider, said the rodeo was a great way to get individuals who love to ride to speak about their experience and share the road with the more junior riders.

"I've been riding for almost ten years," said Thomas. "Since I have many years of experience, I was able to show new riders things such as hand signals and being aware of their surroundings. While junior riders were reminded of basic safety techniques I learned how to share the road with someone with less experience."

Tiggs said motorcycle riders and anyone that is interested in owning or riding a motorcycle has to communicate it to their chain of command. The rider will show all proper documentation to their motorcycle safety representative, complete basic riding courses, and participate in the annual rodeo. This provides Sailors with essential safety techniques that can prevent common incidents.

According to Naval Station Norfolk Instruction 5100.12B, the intent for the motorcycle rodeo is to provide the necessary resources and education to motorcycle riders so that they can remain as safe as possible.

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/.