Free motorcycle rider training classes offered through summer
The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office is joining with Maryland State Police to offer the free Maryland MOTORS (Motor Officers Teaching Other Riders Safety) motorcycle training class for the third year.
Maryland MOTORS is open to all riders with a valid motorcycle license and insurance, and starts Saturday, May 18. The nearest class is being offered in Frederick, Md. at Harley-Davidson of Frederick, 5722 Urbana Pike.
Maryland MOTORS is a safety class for civilian motorcycle riders taught by police officers. The two-part training consists of a classroom portion and a road portion where the civilian riders are accompanied by motorcycle officers on an actual ride.
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During and after the ride, officers communicate with the civilian riders on proper ways to stay safe, along with evaluations of riding techniques intended to increase their safety.
“Offering this class can benefit motorcyclists of all levels, from new riders to those with years of experience. Continuing education is a critical part of maintaining defensive driving and adapting to roadway situations, especially for our vulnerable road users,” said Chrissy Nizer, Motor Vehicle Administrator and Gov. Wes Moore’s Highway Safety Representative. “Riders and drivers have a shared responsibility to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”
In 2023, there were 81 motorcycle-involved fatalities in Maryland. Motorcyclists are injured in nearly three out of four crashes.
Classes are available from May through September and open for registration on a first-come, first-served basis.
If interested in taking a class, go to https://zerodeathsmd.gov/maryland-motors/.
A list of training centers where riders can ensure they have the skills and mental strategies for responsible motorcycle operation can be found at ZeroDeathsMD.gov/Motorcycle.
This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Free motorcycle rider training classes offered through summer
