HARRISBURG, PA — Josh Shapiro, Governor of the Pennsylvania, has officially signed a proclamation declaring May 2026 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month across the Commonwealth. This important initiative is supported by the Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education (A.B.A.T.E.) of Pennsylvania, a statewide organization dedicated to motorcycle safety, education and the protection of riders’ rights.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder to all motorists to share the road responsibly and remain alert for motorcycles. With warmer weather bringing more riders onto Pennsylvania’s roadways, the proclamation emphasizes the importance of vigilance, mutual respect, and safe driving practices.
A.B.A.T.E. of Pennsylvania has been a leading advocate for motorcycle safety and awareness throughout the state for decades. Through rider education programs, public outreach and legislative efforts, the organization continues to promote safer conditions for all who travel Pennsylvania’s roads.
“Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is about more than just riders, it’s about every driver on the road,” said Eric Mershimer, A.B.A.T.E. of Pennsylvania Coordinator. “With nearly 800,000 licensed motorcyclists in Pennsylvania, it is vital that both drivers and riders work together to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”
This year’s observance comes on the heels of the passage of House Resolution (HR) 477* in April, a significant step forward in enhancing motorcycle safety in Pennsylvania. HR 477 strengthens protections for motorcyclists by addressing roadway safety concerns and promoting increased awareness among all drivers. The legislation reflects a growing recognition of the need to reduce motorcycle-related crashes and improve conditions for riders statewide.
Throughout the month of May, A.B.A.T.E. of Pennsylvania chapters, across the state, will host events, awareness campaigns and community outreach efforts to reinforce safe driving habits and highlight the importance of watching for motorcycles.
Motorists are encouraged to:
- Look twice for motorcycles, especially at intersections
- Allow greater following distance
- Always check blind spots before changing lanes
- Avoid distractions while driving
- Take the Motorcycle Safety Course-Free to PA residents
Motorcyclists are encouraged to:
- Wear proper safety gear and protective clothing
- Ride defensively and stay visible
- Follow all traffic laws and speed limits
Motorcycle crashes often result in more severe injuries due to the lack of protective barriers. Increased awareness, education and mutual respect among all road users can significantly reduce these incidents.
A.B.A.T.E. of Pennsylvania remains committed to advocating for motorcyclists’ rights, promoting rider education and working with lawmakers to improve safety for all who share the road.
For more information about Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month events or to learn more about rider safety initiatives, please contact A.B.A.T.E. of Pennsylvania at (717) 731-8955 or visit their official website, abatepa.org.
*House Resolution 477 was sponsored by Rep. Joe McAndrew (D) Allegheny and Co-sponsored by Rep. Patrick Harkins (D) Erie, Rep. Jim Prokopiak (D) Bucks, Rep. Kyle Mullins (D) Lackawanna, Rep. Scott Conklin (D) Centre, Rep. Benjamin Sanchez (D )Montgomery, Rep. Ed Neilson (D) Philadelphia, Rep. Jessica Benham (D) Allegheny, Rep. Aerion Abney (D) Allegheny, Rep. Emily Kinkead (D) Allegheny, Rep. Melissa Cerrato (D) Montgomery, Rep. Clint Owlett (R) Bradford, Rep. Sean Dougherty (D) Philadelphia, Rep. Nikki Rivera (D) Lancaster, Rep. Mandy Steele (D) Allegheny, Rep. Dan Moul (R) Adams, Rep. Steven Malagari (D) Montgomery, Rep. Joe Ciresi (D) Montgomery, Rep. Kate Klunk (R) York, Rep. Eddie Pashinski (D) Luzerne, Rep. Jeremy Shaffer (R) Allegheny.