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HAGERSTOWN, MD (May 14, 2025) – With the days getting longer and warmer, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration reminds all motorists that motorcycle safety is everyone's safety.
In recognition of May 2025 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) Highway Safety Office (MHSO), in partnership with ABATE of Maryland Inc., held an event at the Hagerstown MVA branch this week to remind motorcyclists and drivers to ride safe and ride smart.
“It's crucial that all road users stay aware and cautious, especially as motorcyclists return to the roads. Everyone can help to avoid motorcycle tragedies on our roadways by obeying speed limits, driving and riding sober and remaining alert," said Chrissy Nizer MVA Administrator and Governor Wes Moore's Highway Safety Representative. “The Hagerstown ceremony was a great reminder of the importance of sharing the road and practicing safe driving habits."
Nearly 80% of motorcycle-related fatalities occurred between the months of May and October, with a significant number of crashes taking place between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m., according to recent state statistics. More than half of these crashes occur on Friday and weekends, according to the data.
As motorcyclists are often vulnerable on the road and may be difficult to see, it is important that riders should always be cognizant of their surroundings, obey all traffic laws and wear protective clothing, including a legally required U.S. Department of Transportation-approved helmet.
Two additional events are taking place across the state as part of MVA's annual month-long campaign focused on motorcycle safety and reminding all motorists to stay alert and share the road with motorcycle riders. The MVA will continue its outreach efforts at the following locations later this month:
MVA Salisbury Branch Office 251 Tilghman Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804
Thursday, May 15, 2025, 2:00 p.m.
MVA Waldorf Branch Office 11 Industrial Park Dr. Waldorf, MD 20602
Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 10:00 a.m.
These events also aim to educate drivers and motorcyclists on road safety while highlighting the important resources available through MVA's customer-focused initiatives such as the
FAST TRACK program. This expedited motorcycle licensing process allows applicants to take both the knowledge test for a Class M learner's permit and the riding test on the same day. This year, FAST TRACK will be offered throughout the month of May at all full-service branch offices. Appointments can be made by
clicking here. This initiative is part of the state's ongoing efforts to improve rider education and safety across Maryland.
At the event, MVA officials highlighted the Maryland MOTORS (Motor Officers Teaching Other Riders Safety) program. This collaborative effort between MHSO, Maryland State Police and local law enforcement agencies offers riders comprehensive skills assessments and safety training to ensure motorcyclists are equipped with the necessary skills to stay safe on the road. Riders can register at
ZeroDeathsMD.gov/Maryland-Motors.
The MVA remains committed to offering training courses for new and experienced riders that emphasize skills and concentration necessary to operate a motorcycle by providing a list of
training centers where riders can ensure they have the skills and mental strategies for responsible motorcycle operation.
For more information about MVA and its services, visit
mva.maryland.gov.