NHTSA Adds a Motorcyclist’s Voice

LaCheryl Jones, who considers herself a lifelong motorcycle advocate, has joined the staff of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as a highway safety specialist for the Motorcycle Safety Program in the agency’s Safety Countermeasures Division.

Jones, who has been riding since 2004, “forged collaborative relationships with stakeholders in the realms of driver education and motorcycle safety” during her cross-country travels and comes to NHTSA after working as division manager in the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration.

“My passion for traffic safety and education led me to pursue this opportunity to have a greater impact on a national level,” Jones said.

Here is a little more information about her background and her plans for her
new role.

American Motorcyclist: How did you get started in motorcycling?

LaCheryl Jones: As a little girl, and as early as I can remember, I always loved seeing motorcycles and dreamt of one day riding on one. It wasn’t until my early college years and the rising popularity of a movie at the time called “Biker Boyz” that I fulfilled that dream as a motorcycle passenger.

In my hometown of Baltimore, I would go to a popular motorcyclist gathering spot in Fells Point, and I would ride on different types of motorcycles. I loved the feeling, the freedom, the thrill. And I knew I had to have my own. The sport-bike style was my favorite, and I knew I wanted a Honda CBR.

I started to learn on a Honda, and I loved them. However, I was also exposed to the risks of riding, and I decided to participate in an entry-level riding course before becoming licensed.

Then, as they say, the sky was the limit, and I pursued ownership. I currently own a Honda CBR650F.

AM: What type of riding do you do?

LJ: As a wife and a mother, my schedule is pretty busy, so I commute anytime I can. However, I prefer distance riding and touring. My favorite ride so far has been the Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, N.C.

AM: What brought you to NHTSA?

LJ: I discovered the opportunity to join NHTSA through USA Jobs and was excited for the opportunity to work with motorcycle safety on a national level. While more than one opportunity was available at the time (Motorcycle Safety and Older Road Users), I knew that I would bring a passion for safety and education to either area. However, I was elated when I learned I was selected for the Motorcycle Safety position.

AM: What can AMA members expect from the agency regarding their rights and on-road safety?

LJ: NHTSA’s mission is to save lives, prevent injuries and reduce economic costs due to road traffic crashes through education, research, safety standards and enforcement activity.

AMA [members] can expect that we will continue to respect every person’s right to ride while promoting safe riding behaviors, motorist awareness and education through targeted outreach and stakeholder collaboration.

AM: What else would you like to convey?

LJ: Anybody can ride, and it is never too late to pursue your passion.

Choose to become educated by participating in an entry-level motorcycle safety course, and grow your knowledge and experience through continued education by participating in advanced rider courses.

Ride safely with all the gear all the time. Ride responsibly, and reserve speeding and racing for the racetrack. Stay aware and ride sober.

Your life depends on it.