PCC funds free course for young motorcyclists

Police in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are launching a new free course aimed at educating young and inexperienced motorcyclists so they can ride safely on our roads.

SmartRide, which has been funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones, combines classroom learning and observed rides with our own Roads Policing motorcyclists and is targeted specifically for young motorcyclists, who have not yet learned the skills that older drivers have.

The first course ran on Sunday 28 June and 100% of the students gave feedback that as a result of the course, they feel safer on the roads going forward.

One of the attendees reported: “The instructors made you feel at ease, there’s no pressure and the feedback is also positive.” While others said it was well-structured and easy to understand, and that they learned things they did not learn from a compulsory basic training ( CBT ) course.

Acting Inspector Tom Waller, from our Roads Policing Unit, said: “Inexperience and compromised decision making are common causes of collisions involving young motorcyclists. This course is completely free and will give young riders the tools they need to safely use our roads.

“Our police motorcyclists have a wealth of knowledge and experience and want to share their insights with these young motorists to make them better riders.

“Our goal here is to save as many lives as possible. Education is a huge part of preventing deaths on the road and this course will prepare these young people with skills they can use for the rest of their lives.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones added: “Young motorcyclists are far more at risk on our roads, and too many families are left dealing with heart-breaking loss.

“SmartRide is about giving young riders an extra layer of knowledge and protection to ensure they ride safely, over and above a typical CBT course.

“Learning from experienced police motorcyclists from the Roads Policing Unit can make a real difference.

“If this course helps even one young person get home safely, that’s what matters.

“I’d urge parents whose teenagers ride a scooter or a motorbike, sign up to this course.”

The next course will be held on Saturday 18 July. To book your spot, please sign up here:  https://forms.office.com/e/DbG1ettbnu?origin=lprLink