Injury Prevention for Active Duty Personnel

 Vehicle Accident Injuries

Last Updated: April 13, 2023

​Sadly, each year hundreds of Army Soldiers are killed or severely injured in crashes involving their privately owned vehicles (POVs). These include motorcycles as well as cars and trucks. Because these tragedies are all preventable, private motor vehicle (PMV) safety is an Army priority.

Image of motorcycle accident

The U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center (USACRC) leads efforts to implement policies, and provide Soldier as well as leadership training, certification programs, and other tools and up-to-date educational materials including posters and popular video clips. See links below for direct access.

 

 

Motorcycles

Because it's important to be properly trained and certified to safely ride a motorcycle, the Army has established programs and requirements for both individual Soldiers as well as those with leadership responsibilities.  Continued leadership support, motorcycle mentorship programs, and refresher training for those driving motorcycles are provided by the CRC/ASC; many eye-opening videosExternal Link are also provided to enhance training. The Defense Safety Oversight Council Private Motor Vehicle Task Force provides a series of motorcycle safety tips and instructional videosExternal Link as well. Also, read the Motorcycle-Related Injuries Factsheet.

Privately Owned Vehicles (cars, trucks)

As studies continue to evaluate trends in risk factors leading to accidents, distracted driving has become an increasing concern. Other priority risk factors include alcohol use, fatigue, and failure to wear seatbelts. See associated Privately-Owned Vehicle-Related Injuries Factsheet; as well as regulations, training materials, and very telling videos.External Link  Technical references.  

Vehicles used in military operations and training

Past military vehicle fatalities were found to be associated with failure to use seatbelts in vehicles during deployments. As in POVs, seatbelts are a life-saving intervention in military tactical vehicles. Technical references.