DISTRIBUTION - ALL EMPLOYEES
DATE REVISED - 8/31/2010


25.04.1 Purpose

The Georgia State Patrol Motorcycle Unit is a valuable element of the department, created to enhance traffic enforcement, motorist safety, and public relations. The purpose of this policy is to establish the mission and duties of the Georgia State Patrol Motorcycle Unit.

25.04.2 Policy

It is the policy of the Georgia State Patrol to maintain the highest level of integrity in the selection, training and operation of the Motorcycle Unit. This policy serves to provide procedures, guidelines and requirements that regulate the operation of Georgia State Patrol Motorcycle Unit.

25.04.3 Procedures

A. Objectives

1. To preserve the safety of the motoring public.

2. To complement and enhance the patrol function of the Georgia State Patrol.

3. To reduce the number of traffic crashes on Georgia’s roads through increased presence and visibility.

4. To respond to emergencies in a versatile manner, utilizing the maneuverability of the motorcycle.

B. Authority to Operate

Only the following members are permitted to operate Georgia State Patrol motorcycles:

1. Those members selected for motorcycle duty who possess a valid motorcycle license and have successfully completed the prescribed training course; and

2. Those members selected for motorcycle duty who possess a valid motorcycle license and are participating in the prescribed training course.

C. Training

1. Upon assignment to the Motor Unit, all members shall successfully complete a departmental/P.O.S.T. approved Basic Police Motorcycle Operator’s Course.
 
2. If a member fails to successfully complete the basic course after remedial training, the Unit Commander shall notify the Commanding Officer thru the chain of command.

a. For the purpose of this policy, remedial training shall consist of attending the entire Basic Operator’s Course for a second time.

3. In order to preserve the credibility and integrity of the Motor Unit’s Training program, any member who fails to successfully complete the remedial training shall be reassigned to another post/unit as deemed necessary by the Commanding Officer.

4. Annual Re-Certification

All personnel must successfully complete an annual proficiency course of training in order to remain an active member of the Motor Unit. Any member who fails to successfully complete the re-certification training shall be subject to the same actions as stated in paragraph three above.

D. Equipment

1. All equipment for members of the Motorcycle Unit, including uniforms, shall be authorized by the Commanding Officer. Any exceptions shall be authorized in writing.

2. Motorcycles and all accompanying equipment shall be distinctly marked as determined by the Commanding Officer.

3. Unauthorized equipment and personal modifications shall not be permitted on motorcycles. This includes decals, stickers and tags.

4. Small first aid kits and fire extinguishers may be carried if space is available.

5. Inspections of motorcycles and equipment shall occur in accordance with DPS Inspections Policy #9.01.

E. Uniforms

1. Class A and B Uniform shall consist of that described in DPS Uniform and Appearance Policy #6.01, with the following exceptions:

a. Helmet;

b. Britches;

c. Riding boots;

d. Black leather motorcycle jacket, and

e. Black leather gloves.

2. No exceptions shall be made to the uniform policy.

F. Patrol Procedures

1. When performing traffic stops, the motorcycle engine shall be turned off.
 
2. Members who make an arrest which requires prisoner transport shall request the presence of a trooper in a patrol car to respond to the scene for that purpose.

3. In a pursuit, if the primary unit is a patrol motorcycle, it will yield primary position to a marked patrol car. The patrol motorcycle will discontinue pursuit when a secondary patrol car becomes involved, but will proceed to the termination point of the pursuit to provide guidance and information required for arrest. Further instructions on pursuits can be found in DPS Pursuits Policy #17.02.

4. During periods of inclement weather, when the operation of a motorcycle is unsafe or impractical, members shall perform duties in their assigned patrol car. If inclement weather develops after the commencement of a member’s shift, they may await the passage of the inclement weather not to exceed 30 minutes. If the inclement weather passes and the supervisor deems the roadway safe, motorcycle patrol may resume.

G. Maintenance

1. Motorcycles shall be maintained properly at all times. Maintenance/services will be conducted in accordance with manufacture’s specifications. A pre-ride inspection will be conducted by the operator prior to each shift. It shall include a check of: oil level, tire wear/pressure, drive belt, range of motion of handlebars, headlights, taillights, turn signals and emergency equipment.

2. Motorcycles shall be kept in a clean condition and shall be checked for cleanliness by supervisors as appropriate.

3. All warranty and non-warranty repair work shall be completed by authorized personnel approved by the Motorcycle Unit Commander.

H. Security

1. The member assigned the motorcycle shall ensure that, when it is not in use, it is housed in a secure location that provides shelter from the elements.

2. The motorcycle’s steering lock mechanism shall be utilized to ensure its security. The key shall be removed from the ignition and stored in a separate safe location.

I. Escorts

Off-duty escorts are not permitted. On-duty escorts may be provided under the following circumstances:

1. When specifically required to do so by statute;

2. When public safety will be enhanced by such presence;

3. When requested for the security of dignitaries such as the President of the United States, Governor of the State of Georgia, etc. with approval from Troop Command.

4. At funerals of police officers killed in the line of duty, or other funerals of dignitaries upon request, with approval from Troop Command.