Latest news with #DOT-approved
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Springfield police open applications for motorcycle safety course
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Springfield police are once again offering its free one-day civilian motorcycle safety course called Share the Road for experienced riders. The next Share the Road will take place on Saturday, June 14. The course will also be offered on Sept. 6 and Oct. 11 in 2025. Anyone who is interested can submit an interest application until Thursday, June 12, at noon. SPD says the course will include advanced riding techniques, motorcycle handling, object avoidance and more to help riders be safe on the road and minimize the risk of accidents. Springfield Fire Deptartment adds 16 new firefighters after training Participants must also have the following qualifications and equipment, according to SPD: A valid motorcycle endorsement (not a permit) A motorcycle (250cc or greater, no three-wheel variety). All motorcycles must have legal exhaust and legal handlebars (i.e., no 'ape hangers'). All motorcycles must be street-legal and subject to inspection. Motorcycle insurance A legal, DOT-approved helmet Eye protection Footwear that covers the ankles Proper motorcycle attire Optional equipment – armored or padded motorcycle gear Signed liability waiver Riders who have any questions about the course can email sharetheroad@ Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Motor 1
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Pirelli Has a new Street-Legal Racing Tire for the US. We Tested It
The Pirelli engineers are a bit jealous of us Americans. Speaking at the launch for the new P-Zero family at Monza, they tell us how nice it must be to have a thriving grassroots club-racing and track-day scene in America, and so many great road courses for us to drive. Realizing there was a huge market, Pirelli created a new DOT-approved track-only tire exclusively for the US, the P-Zero Trofeo Track. And good news for the tariff-weary—Pirelli is making these in its Rome, Georgia factory. Photo by: Pirelli This near-slick tire is aimed at various SCCA and NASA championship series, which require tires that have DOT approval. These are technically street-legal tires, but you really shouldn't use them outside of a track. "It's basically a slick tire, with some tread designed to make it comply with the DOT, but it's thought of as a competition tire," says Emanuele Vanzetti, the engineer leading the Trofeo Track's development. "We designed it to run at the pressures you run at the track, it's designed to have a wide working range." Pirelli is offering sizes for 17- to 21-inch wheels, which may disappoint those looking for tires for things like Miatas and E30s , but should cover a ton of modern cars. Beyond the club-racing series, the tires should also be good for those running autocross, time attack, and track days. Vanzetti says that his team did development work both at the European tracks it typically works at, which provide a great reference point, and at US road courses. Just a few weeks ago, Pirelli was working at Carolina Motorsports Park. Photo by: Pirelli The idea is to provide a tire that provides consistently strong lap times. Not just heroic performance for a lap or two, and then a massive drop off. We actually got to run a couple laps of Monza in a Mustang Dark Horse fitted with 315/30R19 Trofeo Tracks all around. A full test will hopefully come, but for now, it was a nice opportunity to get a bit of early exposure to the tire. What's immediately apparent is just how agile the car feels on these P Zero Trofeo Track tires. The Mustang Dark Horse is not a light car, at nearly 4,000 pounds, but at Monza's slow first chicane, it changes direction so freely. After driving a bunch of road cars on road tires earlier in the day—which were still excellent—the Trofeo Track's ability to resist understeer at a place where it's easy to carry too much speed and push wide was admirable. Photo by: Pirelli Photo by: Pirelli Braking performance was excellent, too, with tons of stopping power and great stability. The Dark Horse does have excellent brakes on its own, but on these tires, you can go so deep, even at a crazy high-speed track like Monza. We're still waiting on full sizing and a price list, but early impressions are strong. Not only can we not wait to test these more seriously, we want to know how the market responds. More Pirelli Action Has Pirelli Finally Figured Out How to Beat Michelin? Pirelli's New Cyber Tires Can Talk to Your Car Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Arkansas State Police reminds drivers that May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A national campaign marking the start of the riding season for motorcyclists asks drivers and riders to increase awareness. A release from the Arkansas State Police reminds both groups that May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. In keeping with the theme, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds all that motorcycle safety is everyone's safety. I-30 clear after multiple crashes in Little Rock ASP officials said motorcycles are overrepresented in traffic crashes, primarily due to speed and alcohol impairment. 'It is essential that riders and drivers both pay critical attention to their driving habits and to each other while out on the road,' officials said. ASP cites NHTSA data showing 6,218 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2022, making up 15% of total highway fatalities for that year. Speeding was a major contributing factor for motorcyclist fatalities in 2022, accounting for 35% of all motorcyclist fatalities. Officials continued that more than half, 51%, of those fatalities were motorcyclists 21 to 24 years old. Alcohol impairment also played a significant role in motorcycle-involved crash fatalities, with 42% of motorcycle riders dying in single-vehicle crashes in 2022 being alcohol-impaired. In Arkansas, an average of 76 Arkansans are killed each year on motorcycles totaling 760 from 2013-2022, officials said. Little Rock community members voice safety concerns at meeting after cyclist's death ASP officials remind the importance of motorcycle helmets. Like seat belts, wearing DOT-compliant motorcycle helmets can save lives and reduce injuries, they said. After three years of declines, helmet use increased from 65% in 2021 to 67% in 2022. NHTSA data estimates that helmets saved 1,872 motorcyclists' lives in 2017 and that 749 more lives could have been saved if all motorcyclists had worn their helmets. ASP officials also remind drivers that other than the importance of obeying traffic laws and avoiding distractions and impairment, drivers should be prepared to yield to motorcycles, especially at intersections, and bikers are advised to wear high-visibility clothing and a DOT-approved helmet. Off-duty Little Rock airmen called heroes after responding to near-deadly motorcycle crash Officials said that rider education and training courses are also important for motorcycle safety. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Westfield Police Department explains e-bike regulations
WESTFIELD — Because on nearly every trip around the city it's hard not to notice the electric bikes, called e-bikes, whizzing around at speeds that often seem to be over the posted speed limit, creating hazards for motorist and pedestrians, the Police Department wants residents to know some of the regulations regarding the bikes. 'Number one is speed,' said Police Sgt. Juanita Mejias, the department's director of the Traffic Bureau about most of the complaints the department hears about the bikes. The state has issued regulations that define the two classes of bikes, and they are nearly identical, Mejias said. A Class I e-bike has an electric-powered motor that is only engaged with pedaling. A Class II e-bike, which can be pedaled, usually includes a throttle to control the engine's power. And both must also have fully functional pedals. While incrementally different, there is one regulation involving both — neither should be able to travel more than 20 mph, Mejias said. But there are other classes of bikes that can easily reach speeds of more than 20 mph, which trigger state regulations that must be followed by operators. And it's those e-bikes the department hears the most complaints about, she said. While the major complaint is the speed of the bikes, Mejias said complaints are also made about the bikes being operated on sidewalks. Class I and Class II e-bikes are allowed on any city sidewalk, but not in the business district that extends from North Elm Street south, through downtown on Elm Street and on Main Street to the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail bridge. However, e-bikes that exceed 20 mph are not allowed on any city sidewalk, Mejias said. 'Those bikes must be operated on the road just like any other vehicle,' she said. They must also be registered like a vehicle, the operator must have a driver's license, and when riding wear a DOT-approved helmet, she said. She said it was easy to identify one of the e-bikes that don't fit into the first two classes, they often don't have pedals. Another issue with e-bikes, even those that would fit into the two classes is that the speed limiter can be overridden, which is against state law. She warned parents who might purchase an e-bike for a child to monitor the bike to make sure it's not modified. And to remember to follow state law about the age of the operator, she said. No one under 18 is allowed to operate an e-bike. There is always the worry of a vehicle colliding with a bike of any type, but Mejias wanted residents to know it is only occasionally that a vehicle strikes a bike or e-bike. 'It's the other way around. It's usually the biker that runs into a vehicle,' she said. She gave an example of an intersection where that might occur. Where Maple Street intersects with Franklin Street, a motorist can only take a right turn, so they are usually looking left for oncoming traffic. If a bike is on the Franklin Street sidewalk traveling toward Elm Street there is not only a blind spot on a motorist's right, but most drivers don't also look in that direction before pulling out. 'It's that kind of situation when a bike will strike a vehicle,' she said. If an officer on patrol does catch up with anyone on a bicycle or e-bike operating unsafely, like popping wheelies in the middle of traffic, the officer can order it be confiscated for 14 days. Capt. Eric Hall said one person in the city has had his e-bike confiscated several times, only to get it back and continue with its unsafe operation. Hall said the state has been trying to update legislation to better regulate e-bikes, but it hasn't yet caught up with the technology because of the different types of two-wheel transportation, like scooters (which can have electric power), mopeds, and motorcycles. He suggested new legislation be written to recognize those changes. For those who spot an e-bike being operated unsafely, Hall and Mejias said call the police first. 'Don't engage with them,' they said. For more information on E-Bikes and where you can ride them, check out MassBike a Read the original article on MassLive.
Time Business News
28-04-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Unlocking Opportunities with SAP Certification
If you're a licensed professional exploring ways to expand your career and make a meaningful impact, SAP certification might be the path you've been looking for. Becoming a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a specialized and highly valued designation in the transportation industry. Beyond just being a certification, it's a vital role that safeguards safety on the road and ensures compliance with federal regulations. But who can pursue this certification, and why is it so important? If you've been pondering these questions, we've laid out exactly what you need to know about SAP certification requirements, its value, and how to become certified. The transportation industry relies on the integrity and safety of its workforce. Employees in safety-sensitive roles, such as drivers or machinery operators, are held to strict federal guidelines when it comes to drug and alcohol testing. If a violation occurs, these individuals must go through a structured evaluation, education, or treatment process before returning to work. That's where SAP professionals step in. Substance Abuse Professionals are critical in determining whether an employee is ready to return to duty after a violation. By providing evaluations, recommending treatment programs, and ensuring compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, SAPs play a crucial part in maintaining workplace safety and protecting public well-being. Without properly certified SAPs, the delicate balance between second chances for employees and public safety could easily falter. SAP certification is not open to everyone. To maintain the high standards necessary for such an important responsibility, the DOT has set strict eligibility requirements. To qualify, you must already hold one of the following professional credentials: Doctors of Medicine or Osteopathy (Licensed Physicians) Licensed or Certified Psychologists Licensed or Certified Social Workers Licensed or State-Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselors Licensed or Certified Employee Assistance Professionals (EAPs) These roles require advanced training and expertise in mental health or substance use disorders, ensuring that SAPs have the knowledge and skills to handle sensitive cases with care and professionalism. If you don't hold one of these credentials but aspire to become eligible, you can explore related fields, such as becoming a certified drug and alcohol counselor, to start your path toward eligibility. If you meet the qualifications, here are the steps to help you become certified and begin making a difference in the transportation industry: Complete DOT-Approved Training You'll need to attend a DOT-approved training program focusing on the federal regulations outlined in 49 CFR Part 40. This training provides a comprehensive understanding of the SAP role, how evaluations are conducted, and the essentials of the return-to-duty process. Pass the Qualification Exam After completing the training, you must pass an exam to demonstrate your knowledge of SAP responsibilities and compliance with DOT standards. Keep Your Certification Current SAP certification isn't a one-and-done process. To ensure you're up-to-date on the latest regulations and practices, periodic renewals and continuing education are required, typically every three years. Each step reinforces your expertise and ensures you're prepared to make a positive impact in your role. If you're on the fence about pursuing this certification, consider the benefits. Not only does SAP certification expand your career opportunities within a high-demand field, but it also allows you to make a meaningful contribution to public safety. Helping employees reintegrate into the workforce responsibly and safely is a deeply rewarding part of the job. Additionally, being SAP certified positions you as a valued resource for employers navigating the complexities of DOT compliance. Whether you work independently or as part of an organization, your skills and certification will always be in demand in industries where safety is paramount. SAP certification isn't just about meeting eligibility requirements or passing an exam; it's about stepping into a role where you can make a real difference. If you're ready to take the leap, visit AACS SAP Certification Guide today. Here, you'll find a wealth of resources, information, and support to guide you through the process. Whether you're an experienced counselor or a licensed physician, this certification can open doors to new opportunities while allowing you to contribute to the safety and compliance vital to the transportation industry. Don't wait. Start your SAP certification journey today and become part of an essential network that blends expertise, empathy, and commitment to public safety. Visit for more details and take your first step toward making a difference. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
