by As warmer weather brings more motorcycles onto Pennsylvania’s roadways, state officials are renewing calls for rider safety and training.
With over 3,000 motorcycle crashes and 219 deaths reported in 2024, leaders are urging Pennsylvanians to take advantage of free safety programs.
What Happened
With summer arriving, Pennsylvania transportation and education officials have launched a safety awareness campaign targeting motorcyclists and the general public.
The campaign encourages proper training, responsible riding, and road-sharing awareness.
Key Details
According to PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll, nearly 3,300 motorcycle crashes occurred across the state in 2024, leading to 219 fatalities.
To help reduce these incidents, PennDOT is offering free motorcycle safety courses to all residents, regardless of experience level.
These courses focus on:
- Emergency braking
- Collision avoidance
- Real-world traffic situations
- Skill-building and licensing preparation
Kara Templeton of PennDOT emphasized the value of these programs. “The investment in training will only cost a little time but can enhance skills — and earn a license if you don’t have one yet,” she said.
Reactions or Statements
Dr. Jason Bottiglieri, Superintendent of Northeastern School District, praised PennDOT’s outreach in schools.
“Since the program began, we’ve seen an increase in student awareness and engagement around road safety,” Bottiglieri stated.
“We’ve heard directly from students and families who credit the program with not only helping them be more confident on the road, but also with preventing risky behavior.”
Investigation or What’s Next
So far, more than 20,000 Pennsylvanians have completed the state’s free motorcycle safety courses.
But with motorcycle registrations on the rise, officials stress that more riders need to enroll in training programs.
The state also aims to raise general driver awareness to reduce motorcycle-related collisions.
FAQs
Who can take the free motorcycle safety courses in Pennsylvania?
Any Pennsylvania resident—regardless of experience level—can enroll in the courses at no cost.
What topics are covered in the safety training?
Training includes real-world scenarios, emergency braking, obstacle avoidance, and skill development.
How can I register for the free course?
Visit the official PennDOT website to find a course near you and sign up online.
Why is motorcycle safety a focus this summer?
Crashes increase during the warmer months. Officials want to prevent fatalities through education and awareness.
Are these courses only for new riders?
No. Experienced riders are encouraged to refresh their skills and learn updated safety practices.
Summary / Final Takeaway
As Pennsylvania enters the busy summer riding season, state officials are emphasizing motorcycle safety through free training and education.
With crash statistics on the rise, now is the time for both riders and drivers to be alert, responsible, and proactive in preventing accidents.
