The U.S. Senate on May 19 unanimously approved a resolution introduced by U.S. Sen. John Curtis (R-UT) expressing support for the designation of May 2026 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
The bipartisan Senate Resolution 740, which Sen. Curtis cosponsored the same day alongside fellow cosponsor U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and bill sponsor U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI), aims to promote safe practices among the estimated 30 million motorcycle drivers in the United States who represent roughly 9 percent of the population.
“I know firsthand the freedom and enjoyment that comes with riding on America’s roads,” Sen. Curtis said. “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.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 6,228 motorcyclists were killed in 2024, accounting for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities, the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities on record since the Fatality Analysis Reporting System began data collection in 1975.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month addresses such safety concerns by promoting roadway education, safety training opportunities, and the use of proper gear for motorcycle operation, according to the text of the resolution.
“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 Sen. 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.”
The resolution is also supported by the Motorcycle Industry Council and Motorcycle Safety Foundation, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and the Motorcycle Industry Council.
“Peak riding season is coming soon, which will bring more riders to roadways across the country,” said Sen. Peters. “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.”