Motorcyclists learn safety 101

by Jennifer Pierce, NEWS 9

EDMOND, Okla. - Motorcyles and scooters can save you cash at the pump, but safety still comes first. With more of these vehicles hitting the road, safety officials want riders to stay safe.

The Edmond Police Department had a motorcycle safety class Saturday morning taught by motorcycle unit officers and Oklahoma Highway Patrol Troopers.

Law enforcement are the first to see what happens when a ride turns tragic. Just last week a Choctaw High School baseball coach died after he crashed his motorcycle riding home from a concert.

"A mistake you make in a car, if you make the same mistake on a motorcycle, it can be devestating. It could cost you your life," Officer Dan Butcher said.

That's why Cindy Hughes is taking any chances when it comes to her safety. Hur husband is a retired trooper and her son is an active trooper. She has heard all of the tragic stories.

"This is my second school and I've learned so much in my first school," Cindy Hughes said.

Safety courses aren't just for new riders, many experienced riders take the classes to brugh up on their skills. Safety instructors said even experienced riders make simple mistakes. A common mistake is driving a bike like a car.

"A lot of people who have ridden a motorcycle drive it like a car. What we try to teach you is that the motorcycle can make manuvers and get out of situations that can cause accidents if you learn how to ride it," Officer Butcher said. 

Even though Hughes is a motorcycle enthusiast, she admits it's never too late to learn something new.

"If you have developed a habit that you shouldn't have, they can correct it," Hughes said. "With all the repitition of the practice we do our here, it helps it become engrained to do it the correct way."

Edmond police hold the free classes twice a year. The next class will be in the fall. Call the Edmond Police Department at 405-359-4420 for more information.