Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan recently proclaimed May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
Last year, there were 74 motorcycle-involved fatalities in the state.
The proclamation is supported by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s (MDOT MVA) Highway Safety Office.
“Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable roadway users, and it’s up to each and every Marylander to take a second look for motorcyclists while traveling,” said Chrissy Nizer, MDOT MVA administrator and Hogan’s highway safety representative. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an important time to remind drivers and motorcycle riders to look out for each other, avoid distractions and drive responsibly.”
Maryland State Police will launch Motor Officers Teaching Other Riders Safety, a motorcycle training program, on June 1.
The police, in partnership with the MDOT MVA’s Highway Safety Office, will offer free, two-part classes to motorcyclists with a valid motorcycle license and insurance. Classes are on a first-come, first-served basis, and registration is required.
More than 90 percent of motorcyclists surveyed by MDOT MVA’s Highway Safety Office on road safety behaviors and attitudes said they strongly or somewhat agree that supplemental training in motorcycle operation/driving has benefits, and 80 percent said they would be interested in taking a free motorcycle training course taught by law enforcement agencies.