Young motorcyclists offered free training to increase safety on Dorset's roads
I am delighted to continue with my support of DocBike, a charity that sees a qualified motorcycle doctor or critical care paramedic respond to serious injuries on Dorset’s roads.
DocBike invest significant time in preventing riders being involved in collisions in the first place, as data shows those between 16-25 are most likely to be involved in motorcycle collisions.
But research suggests 80% of collisions could be avoided through rider education even when the cause of a crash is not a riders’ fault, underlining why DocBike’s work is valuable to Dorset.
DocBike has developed a new course which aims to reduce the growing number of motorcycle collisions, especially among younger riders.
The DocBike NextGen course is available free of charge for riders aged 16-35 who have a current CBT, but not yet a full bike license, and have a motorcycle to bring with them that they are legally permitted to ride on public roads. The bike must be roadworthy, have a current MOT and be taxed and insured.
The course will focus on first aid, rider skills training, rider awareness and the importance of wearing protective clothing. Attendees will also have their motorcycles checked over by mechanics and shown how to keep it in a roadworthy condition.
My Office has provided funding for 250 high-security Gold Secure motorcycle locks to be given out to each participant upon completion of the course. Thanks to funding from my Office in previous years, motorcycle locks were offered to Dorset bikers at discounted rates.
However, I am happy we can now go one step further to provide free motorcycle locks to the young people who attend the DocBike NextGen Course to encourage young riders to attend the course and to ensure more motorcycles are kept safe.
By covering the cost of the locks, my Office can make motorcycle security more accessible and help young riders take proactive steps to protect their motorcycles against theft.
Preventing motorcycle theft is an important element in keeping Dorset’s roads safe, as many motorcycles that are stolen, are ridden in a dangerous manner and pose a threat to other road users. Therefore, this scheme will help make Dorset a safer place for us all, not just motorcycle owners.
The DocBike NextGen course starts next month at the Portland Sailing Academy in Weymouth, and I strongly urge those eligible, to attend this free course. Other courses are available in Bournemouth. Please visit the DocBike website for more information or to book onto a course.
David Sidwick
Police and Crime Commissioner