WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution led by U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Gary Peters (D-MI), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Angus King (I-ME) to designate May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” The resolution promotes safe practices for the millions of motorcycle riders across America.
“I know firsthand the freedom and enjoyment that comes with riding on America’s roads,” said Senator Curtis. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an important reminder that we must properly educate riders and that we all share responsibility for keeping our roads safe, especially heading into the summer months.”
“As an avid motorcycle rider myself, I believe the best way to travel across Michigan is by motorcycle,” said Senator Peters. “Peak riding season is coming soon, which will bring more riders to roadways across the country. That’s why I’m proud the Senate has once again passed this bipartisan resolution that recognizes motorcyclists and brings awareness to safe roadway practices for riders and motorists.”
“There is no better way to see the beauty of my home state than cruising up and down the rolling hills of southwest Iowa on a Harley,”said Senator Ernst. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity for me to celebrate what I love about the freedom of being out on the open road while also highlighting the importance of safety and rider education.”
“Motorcycles are a part of life for many Americans—and many Maine people—especially during the summer months,” said Senator King. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an important reminder that a little extra attention and caution can save lives. Whether you’re behind the handlebars or behind the wheel, we all share the responsibility of keeping our roads safe.”
“The Senate resolution recognizing May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is incredibly meaningful because it helps keep motorcyclists at the forefront of the minds of drivers, riders, and policymakers,” said Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council and Motorcycle Safety Foundation. “This recognition is an important reminder that awareness and responsible road use can help save lives. We thank Senators Peters and Ernst for their longstanding commitment to motorcyclist safety and for the leadership they have provided over the years. Their dedication has made a lasting difference, and they will truly be missed.”
“Longtime champions of motorcycling, Senators Peters and Ernst have again ensured the Senate recognizes Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month by authoring this resolution,” said Scott Schloegel, Senior Vice President of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and the Motorcycle Industry Council. “They know firsthand the importance of all road users looking out for motorcyclists and their leadership on this issue will be sorely missed when they retire at the end of this Congress. Having had the honor of riding alongside them in their home states of Michigan and Iowa I can attest to their commitment to safe riding and their passion for our sport. May is a time when many riders are returning to the roads after the winter season and it is the perfect time to remind all road users to lookout for motorcycles as we share the roads.”
Background:
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,228 motorcyclists were killed in 2024, accounting for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities. This is the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities on record since the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) began data collection in 1975. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month aims to address these safety concerns by promoting roadway education, safety training opportunities, and the use of proper gear for motorcycle operation.
The text of the resolution can be found here.