The Driving Standards Agency (DSA), an executive agency of GB’s Department for Transport (DfT), is currently working closely with motorcycle industry representatives to deliver a range of actions that were identified in the Government’s National Motorcycle Strategy. These initiatives will help reduce the number of motorcyclists involved in fatal and serious injury crashes on our roads each year.
DSA’s vision is “Safe Driving for Life”. The overall mission is to contribute to the public service agreement objective to achieve 40% reduction in riders and drivers killed or seriously injured in road accidents, in the age group up to 24 years, by 2010 compared with the average for 1994-98.
Our contribution centres on:
- Setting standards for drivers, riders and trainers
- Driver education and the provision of learning resources
- Registering and supervising quality assured instructors
- Modern, effective and efficient assessments conducted as computer based and practical tests.
Register of Post-Test Motorcycle Trainers
In February 07 DSA launched a voluntary register for motorcycle trainers delivering post-test training (RPMT). People, who qualify to join the Register, and provide a high standard of training, will make a valuable contribution to road safety. DSA have set minimum standards, agreed with the motorcycle industry, for entry to the Register and will then quality assure the delivery of training to ensure those standards are maintained.
Information relating to the Register of Post-Test Motorcycle Trainers and all DSA activities can be found at http://www.transportoffice.gov.uk)
Training Incentives for Bikers
DSA have also developed a scheme that allows bikers who undergo rider development training with someone from the Register of Post-Test Motorcycle Trainers, to qualify for substantial discounts to their insurance.
The modular training package, following an initial risk based assessment will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual but based around a joint DSA and motorcycle industry agreed competence framework.
Promotion/Publicity of the Motorcycle Register
Throughout this year and into 2008, DSA are running nationwide Business Customer Conferences that include workshops providing up to date information on the development of a range of motorcycle initiatives, including the post-test training in addition to attending and supporting various external motorcycling events designed to promote safe-riding and the benefits of further training.
For further information please visit the website mentioned in the article or email Graham Shaw at: graham.shaw@dsa.gsi.gov.uk