In 2018, an estimated 3,000 motorcyclists were seriously injured or killed in motorcycle crashes on Arizona roads. As a result, one organization believes there is an urgent need for an effective course on motorcycle safety. In a program that is the only one of its kind in the country, motorcyclists have access to a safety course that offers scholarships to help pay for the course fees.
In spite of the alarming number of crashes in Arizona every year, the number of registrations continue to climb. That is one of the reasons that the Arizona Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Foundation (AMSAF) offers classes to inexperienced motorcyclists and those who wish to improve their skills. According to the director of the foundation, an estimated 75 percent of riders have never received safety instruction.
AMSAF offers motorcyclists a two-day safety training course at a variety of locations throughout the state for a cost of $100. For those who wish to enroll but may find it difficult to pay the full price, the program offers scholarships that reduce the price by half. AMSAF has formed partnerships with the state of Arizona as well as with insurance companies, medical providers, motorcycle-related businesses and local law offices in order to provide the scholarships to as many riders as possible.
Riders who are interested in the program may apply for scholarships as long as they meet the minimum age requirements, have access to a motorcycle and hold a valid permit. The program’s stated goals are to reduce the numbers of crashes throughout the state by offering education in motorcycle safety and awareness. Though safety education is an important component in avoiding many crashes, victims could still be injured due to the negligence of other motorists. Injured victims, including the surviving families of deceased victims, may consider pursuing recovery of their financial losses by filing a civil lawsuit against another party whose negligence caused or contributed to an accident.
