Twenty-one motorcycle riders have died on Virginia roadways in traffic crashes since June 1. Of those, nine have been in single-vehicle crashes.
Virginia State Police is urging all motorists to do their part to share the road responsibly. Passenger and commercial vehicle drivers need to remain alert for motorcyclists due to their size and visibility. When pulling onto or across a roadway or when changing lanes, drivers are especially advised to be on the lookout for motorcycles as they can be obstructed by other vehicles, glare, etc.
Per vehicle miles traveled in 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports motorcyclists were about 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and were four times more likely to be injured. Safe motorcycling takes balance, coordination, and good judgment.
To help enhance motorcyclists’ safety, state police is encouraging Virginians to participate in the free “Ride 2 Save Lives” motorcycle self-assessment courses being offered now through October.
This course allows current riders the opportunity to learn and practice rider safety, how to handle hazards, special situations, interstate highways, curve negotiation and much more. The course is conducted by Virginia State Police Motors Troopers and allows riders to get to know their own motorcycles in a safe environment.
All participants must have a valid operator’s license with a Class ‘M’ endorsement, appropriate riding attire, and helmet and eye protection. Motorcycles must be street legal and helmets must be DOT approved to participate in this program.
Hampton Roads
July 24 – 8:30 a.m. – Yorktown – Waters Edge Church
Aug. 21 – 8:30 a.m. – Virginia Beach – ADS, Inc.
Sept. 25 – 8:30 a.m. – Yorktown – Waters Edge Church
Oct. 23 – 8:30 a.m. – Virginia Beach – ADS, Inc.
Metro-Richmond
Aug. 14 – 9 a.m. – Richmond – Steel Horse Harley Davidson
Sept. 18 – 9 a.m. – Richmond – Steel Horse Harley Davidson
Oct. 2 – 9 a.m. – Richmond – Steel Horse Harley Davidson
Central Virginia/New River Valley
Aug. 21 – 8:30 a.m. – Salem – Lakeside Baptist Church
Sept. 18 – 8:30 a.m. – Lynchburg – Central Virginia Community College
Sept. 18 – 8:30 a.m. – Salem – Lakeside Baptist Church
Oct. 16 – 8:30 a.m. – Salem – Salem Red Sox Stadium
Oct. 16 – 8:30 a.m. – Lynchburg – Central Virginia Community College
Northern Virginia
All available classes are full.
Virginia State Police conducts the “Ride 2 Save Lives” course yearly, beginning in the spring and ending in the fall.
A comprehensive listing of Ride 2 Save Lives courses can be found by visiting virginiastatepolice.eventbrite.com. Space is limited and advanced registration for these free courses is required.
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Chris Graham
