As a new motorcyclist, you need to know everything you can about riding and about anticipating and avoiding a collision. Your best plan is to enroll in the Virginia Rider Training Program, managed by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The program’s basic course for new riders includes about six hours of class instruction and 10 hours more on a bike utilizing a specially designed course set up in a large, empty parking lot. The program takes two to three days, generally on weekends and evenings. The classroom work covers the laws governing motorcycling and recommendations for handling situations you’re likely to encounter. Then, out on the practice range, you put your new knowledge to work on a bike, learning basic motorcycle operations, turning, braking, and obstacle avoidance. Locating the Virginia Rider Training Program in your community is easy; it’s offered at locations around the state. More detailed information on the training program is available at your local DMV office, or log onto www.dmv.state.va.

We’re All Out There Together: Motorcycle Awareness Important Element in Driver’s Education

Drivers, especially new ones, need to be cognizant that they are sharing the road with motorcycles. As motorcyclists, we know that a major hazard is the motorist who fails to see us before abruptly changing lanes or making a turn. In the driver’s ed courses required in Virginia’s high schools, a portion of the program is devoted to motorcycle awareness. Experienced motorcyclists talk to students about the particular challenges of riding a bike, and how they as drivers can help ensure that we all ride safely. VCOM staff has been closely involved in developing the motorcycle segment of the driver’s ed curriculum, and VCOM Director Jim Cannon regularly addresses students as part of the program at various high schools.