Motorcycle Safety

Pennsylvania motorcyclists, their friends and family members tell their own stories in PennDOT's new motorcycle safety campaign documentary, which debuted online today at www.LiveFreeRideAlive.com.

The documentary, which celebrates the freedom that comes with riding and offers a sobering look at what happens when that freedom is gone, made its public debut on July 24 at the Carlisle Bike Fest in Cumberland County.

Allen D. Biehler (PennDOT Secretary) says: "The Live Free Ride Alive campaign is a major component of PennDOT's efforts to reduce motorcycle crashes and fatalities on Pennsylvania roadways. The campaign reminds riders to take it easy out there and accept personal responsibility for their actions, and addresses such issues as drinking and riding, speeding, and being properly trained and licensed to operate a motorcycle."

After viewing the documentary online, riders are encouraged to share their experiences and the lessons they've learned. Site visitors may also take the "Be One Less" pledge, in which they pledge to drive safely and be one less crash statistic.

Pennsylvania riders can enhance their driving skills and safety awareness by taking free training offered through Pennsylvania's Motorcycle Safety Program. Courses are free to Pennsylvania residents and are held from March through October at approximately 70 sites across the state. Motorcycle permit holders who successfully complete the course will be issued a motorcycle license.

The 15-hour, Basic Rider Course (BRC) consists of five hours of in-class instruction and 10 hours of practical riding experience on a riding range under the watchful eyes of certified rider coaches. The BRC is a comprehensive safety and skills overview that provides valuable training for new riders.

This course is also helpful to more experienced riders, allowing them to polish their skills and recognize any unsafe habits they may have picked up. Motorcycles and helmets are provided for students taking the basic course.

If a rider has completed the BRC, the six-hour, Experienced Rider Course helps experienced riders refresh their safety knowledge and hone their skills on a riding range under the guidance of certified rider coaches. Students taking the ERC must provide their own motorcycle and helmet.

In addition to the documentary, www.LiveFreeRideAlive.com offers several great resources for riders, including sections on motorcycle gear and upkeep, rider tips, information about popular motorcycle routes in Pennsylvania and much more.