Keith Chaplin’s front page story in the June 29 issue of the Skagit Valley Herald describes the Washington State Patrol’s “Target Zero” initiative. The objective of this initiative is to “eliminate motorcycle fatalities by 2030.”

First, it is refreshing to see the WSP taking action to reduce the number of motorcycle fatalities in our state. Certainly there is a lot that needs to be done to improve motorcycle safety in Washington. The fact that roughly half of all motorcycle fatalities involve no vehicle other than the motorcycle is telling.

It is clear that the WSP has made this program a high priority and put it on the fast track. Their very aggressive timetable of 22 YEARS is an indication of the seriousness with which they are pursuing their goal. (Yes, folks, that was sarcasm.)

Second, what kind of goal is zero fatalities anyway? I’m sorry, given the infinite number of ways for a motorcyclist to be killed on Washington roads, many of which are unforeseeable and therefore not preventable, how is this even remotely achievable? These are just “feel-good” words about unattainable goals.

I get very skeptical whenever I see government agencies and politicians use words like “zero.” ("Zero tolerance” anyone?) Usually the word “zero” is a good indicator of the amount of logic and sense applied. WSP’s Target Zero is another example of just that.

Couldn’t agree more.  It would have been much better (and more in line with the article) to say their target was for zero (or as close as possible) new riders to be riding without MSF (or similar) training/education.

The only way for zero motorcycle fatalities is for there to be zero motorcycles.

Which is sure how I read the title of the article.

-Brian

And next to no mention of one of the leading causes of motorcycle fatalities - idiots in cars.

The entire article was a sham.  I was appalled reading it.  The writer did not do his/her research.  Target Zero has little to do with Motorcycles.  The whole thing was an embarrasment to the SVH.  People got the wrong impression.  Sad to see that happen.  Perhaps the writer needs to get their facts straight and then rewrite the story.

Hippie Chaser - I think the reporter did a fine job of accurately portraying the program. WSP’s own material confirms the facts of the story. If anyone should be embarrassed it’s the WSP for coming up with such a lame program.

Sorry John but you don’t have all the information. The reporter relly blew it.  It has little but some to do with bikes.  Also I have been a rider sice I was 14 and now quite old just to clear up one area.  I am very framiliar with the program.