Virginia DMV reminds motorcyclists about endorsements, training before hitting the road

James Dalpino
·2 min read

RICHMOND, Va. (WFXR)—With spring just around the corner and the weather starting to get warmer, more motorcyclists will be out enjoying their ride. With this in mind, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Highway Safety Office is reminding riders to ensure they have a motorcycle endorsement and proper training before they put their bike on the road.

In 2023, the DMV reported 2,127 crashes involving a motorcyclist in Virginia and 127 crashes were fatal. The DMV says one in four motorcyclists in the state are riding without a motorcycle endorsement and 76% of riders involved in these crashes had not completed a training course.

“As a fellow rider I know that the thrill of riding a motorcycle is unmatched, but I also know the importance of proper training,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “Whether you are just taking up riding or you’ve been riding for years, a certified training course will make you a better rider and it could save your life.”

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To encourage riders to get the necessary training and prevent crashes, the DMV is debunking some common motorcycle myths. They include:

  • Not needing a special endorsement for a license to ride a motorcycle: In the state, operating a motorcycle without the proper license or endorsement could result in penalties that may include fines or jail time.

  • Not needing a training course: Training courses can help correct unsafe habits, and remind you how to react when faced with an unexpected danger safely. The State’s Rider training program also makes getting an endorsement from the DMV easier

  • Wearing gear while riding, so training is unnecessary: While wearing all gear can save lives in the event of a crash, proper training can help prevent that crash. Gear and training are a team that helps ensure your safety

  • Less likely to crash because of lack of interstate driving: In 2023, the DMV reports 87% of crashes happened on non-interstate roads. If you aren’t properly prepared for the unexpected, it may not matter where you ride

Learn more about the facts of motorcycle safety and about Virginia Rider Training Programs on our website.

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