DOT - Partnership To Educate Future Riders on Motorcycle - MRAS

The General Services Administration (GSA), on behalf of the Department of Transportation (DOT), is conducting market research to explore effective strategies for enhancing motorcycle safety education among young riders. The primary goal of this initiative is to address the alarming increase in fatalities among riders under the age of 21, which have risen by 40% post-COVID-19 and exceeded pre-pandemic levels. This project aims to replicate and expand upon Florida's successful Motorcycle Safety Program by implementing a similar educational framework in three states with high fatality rates for young riders.

The work requested involves creating a comprehensive demonstration project based on Florida's model, which partnered with the Florida Driver Education Licensing Assistance Program (DELAP) instructors to integrate motorcycle safety education into high school curricula. This program includes presentation materials that cover crucial topics such as motorcycle safety issues, road-sharing practices, and the rules and responsibilities of motorcyclists. The goal is to directly engage younger drivers, enhance their knowledge, influence their attitudes and behaviors towards motorcycle safety, and ultimately reduce traffic crashes and fatalities.

Key objectives of this project include defining potential strategies for the demonstration project, identifying and recruiting suitable states for participation, conducting the demonstration itself, and developing a resource guide that documents findings related to strengths, challenges, and implementation gaps. Stakeholders involved in this initiative include State Departments of Transportation (DOTs), State Highway Safety Offices (SHSO), and State Motorcycle Safety Programs.

The final deliverable will be a comprehensive report highlighting the outcomes of the demonstration project focusing on strengths, challenges faced during implementation, and any identified gaps that need addressing in future projects. This effort aligns with a "Safe System Approach," emphasizing safer people through targeted outreach efforts aimed at promoting equity within road safety education.