| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 6695 | 2019-05-06 | Statewide | Safe Motorcycle Riding Promoted through Training Program |
HEADQUARTERS NEWS RELEASE Safe Motorcycle Riding Promoted through Training Program Baton Rouge – The tradition of promoting motorcycle safety across Louisiana continues as Governor John Bel Edwards has declared the month of May as “Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month.” In the ongoing effort to increase motorcycle rider safety across the state, the Department of Public Safety’s “Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program” currently offers Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Instructor training courses and promotes motorcycle awareness projects. These research based courses address the critical physical and mental skills needed in the safe and skillful operation of a motorcycle. According to data from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, last year 86 people were killed and nearly 1,200 were injured as a result of motorcycle crashes in Louisiana. Although the numbers may seem high, 2018 saw a decrease in fatalities and injuries from the previous year. Unfortunately, so far in 2019 over 20 people have been killed and nearly 300 injured in motorcycle related crashes per LHSC statistics. In an effort to help reduce those statistics, riders are encouraged to participate in the “Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program” where they can be educated on safe riding practices including: being visible, dressing for safety, applying effective riding strategies, and understanding the capabilities and limitations of their bike. During the program’s hands-on training exercises, motorcyclists are taught to apply these safety practices to not only avoid being involved in a crash, but to greatly reduce the chance of injury should a crash occur. Additional information on the Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Rider courses as well as training dates and locations can be found at http://www.lsp.org/motorcycle.html or by dialing 225-925-6113 ext. 224. Throughout the remainder of 2019 the programs will be offered at eight training locations across the state. Troopers urge drivers to always be aware of motorcyclists around them, and likewise urge motorcyclists to engage in safe riding practices when on our roadways. Motorcyclists should practice safe and responsible operator behavior such as obeying speed limits, wearing a helmet, and never operating their motorcycle under any form of impairment. If motorists witness hazardous situations or possible impaired drivers, they may dial *LSP (*577) to be connected to the nearest Troop to report that activity. Let’s all work together to help keep motorcyclists, as well as all motorists, safe during the month of May and beyond! Contact Information: | |||
| No attachments for this article. | |||