Open The Throttle. Not The Bottle.

[totalmotorcycle]

Open The Throttle. Not The Bottle.
Connecticut Launches Motorcycle Rider Impairment Campaign

Press Release Issued By Ride4Ever.org (December 30, 2003)


Newington, Conn./December 19, 2003 - The Connecticut Department of Transportation's (ConnDOT) Division of Highway Safety will unveil a statewide motorcycle rider impairment campaign at the 6th Annual Northeast Motorcycle Expo in Hartford on January 3 and 4. Funded by a grant from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), "Open the Throttle. Not the Bottle." aims to bring awareness to riders about the percentage of impairment-related motorcycle crashes, as well as encourage safe motorcycle riding practices.

Last year in Connecticut, 40 percent of motorcycle fatalities involved alcohol. "This percentage is unacceptable," says Raymond C. Gaulin, Jr., Highway Safety Management Specialist with the DOT. "The State's motorcycle rider education program addresses the importance of riding sober, however, its main purpose is to teach riders about overall motorcycle safety. The 'Open the Throttle. Not the Bottle.' campaign is meant to specifically address impairment, as well as communicate the impact of alcohol, drugs and fatigue on riding ability. Ultimately, our goal is to change behavior," he continues.

The program targets men ages 25 to 40 - who account for the largest number of riders on Connecticut roadways. "Rather than lecture, this program is meant to celebrate the freedom of riding, while subtly reminding them to ride safe and ride sober," says Gaulin. It capitalizes on the love affair motorcyclists have with their bikes and the freedom they feel when they are on the open road. For example, the web site, www.ride4ever.org, is designed for all the different styles of Connecticut motorcyclists. It includes downloadable ride maps, digital postcards to keep in touch with fellow enthusiasts, articles, a listing of alcohol-free events, as well as submissions by Connecticut riders who want to share their personal riding experiences.

Partners in this program include the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) - a national organization that pursues, protects and promotes the interests of motorcycle enthusiasts; the Connecticut Motorcycle Riders Association (CMRA) - a grass roots advocacy group whose purpose is to protect and advance the interests of motorcyclists, including improving motorcycle safety through education and awareness; and the Connecticut Motorcycle Business Association (CMBA) - a Connecticut member motorcycle dealer association.

"We're pleased to support this program," says Robert Rasor, president of the American Motorcyclist Association. "Our 'Ride Straight' program and the 'Open the Throttle. Not the Bottle.' campaign share the same goals. We're gathering strength in numbers and hope that through this partnership, we can reach more riders," he continues.

The campaign kicks off January 3 and runs through September. Beginning this spring, riders can expect to see billboards, hear radio public service announcements, as well as see the campaign message at grass roots events. For more information, please visit www.ride4ever.org.

[mswarrior]

To me it's comon sense but I can't remember the exact numer of times I've seen guys crack open a beer or two then go. These riders are not welcome to ride in my party. To think I may be dead tomorrow is bad but just think of not being able to ride again, ever. Or worse, they kill or injure an inocent person which makes it worse for the rest of us responsible riders. I think the new ads are good and warrented. But other means could be used. Just don't tell the 250 lb guy to give up his keys, your likely going to be hurt. And not from a crash. Being subtle about works best unless the dude can barely walk. This is a serious subject which we may never completely drill into peoples heads. All we can do is try.

[Keyoke]

I have a VERY strict limit if i'm out on the bike - 0.

I don't see the point of the "i'll just have the one". I find it much easier and better to stick entirely to Cola and Orange Juice.

I can see it being "i'll just have the one" eventually, it's 2, then sometime down the line there's a party, someones birthday etc.... and then you think "i'll just make it 3, just this once" Misjudge a corner by 2 feet,
then it's goodnight. forever.

Not the sort of risk i'm willing to take....

[totalmotorcycle]

I think it's more common to unfortunately associate Bikes with Bars (or the other way around).

I know there are many bikers who enjoy a tall cold one on a hot day while out riding.

In Calgary we have a 500-1500 bike Salvation Army Toy Run each year for charity. It's a GREAT event and bikers love it. The Salvation Army even provides a great FREE lunch to everyone who rode in the "parade" too. The The only sad part is at the end of the run with the food they also sell beer. It is hard to resist and so far I have been successful resiting the urge to have a cold beer. Now to be fair, there are a few hours between the time you get there to the time everyone leaves...

Riding takes a lot of concentration, balance and reflexes, alcohol only makes riding more unsafe. Drinking and driving is bad enough in a cage, but on a bike it is just... Well, you already know what it is I'm sure.



Mike.