The latest vehicle mile travel data shows motorcyclists are about 27 more times as likely as passenger car occupants to die in a motor vehicle traffic crash.

Reducing the number of fatalities and injuries on the highway takes safety practices and cooperation from all road users. A motorist is especially targeted because many aren’t aware of the safety challenges on the road.

That is one of the main reasons behind the K-Dog Foundation.

The K-Dog Foundation was founded in 2009 by Amanda Simmons after her son was killed in a motor vehicle accident. Since then, she created a platform that brings attention to the challenges motorcyclist face. The foundation’s safety awareness and biker blessing event bring in certified safety instructors that will educate and demonstrate different techniques, such as, defense driving.

 “Every day I look on the news or social media. There’s someone getting killed on those bikes. Whether it be, a car didn’t see them, or they were clowning. A life was taken,” said CEO Amanda Simmons.”

“And so, I just feel that you know, that-that’s what I’m called to do. And whatever it is I have to do to get the word out,” she added.

The 8th annual event begins this Saturday at Moore Park at 9:30 a.m. The blessing of the bikers will follow on Sunday at Progressive Baptist Church, beginning at 11 a.m.