Leeward Community College is offering free motorcycle rider courses through the month and over two weekends in June as part of Motorcycle Safety Month in Hawai'i.

Lt. Gov. James Aiona joined state Department of Transportation officials yesterday at a proclamation signing at the college.

Several events are planned throughout May to raise awareness of motorcyclist and driver responsibilities.

Aiona noted Hawai'i's high rate of motorcycle fatalities in calling for greater personal responsibility on the road.

There were 30 motorcycle fatalities in Hawai'i last year, a 36 percent increase over the previous year.

Aiona said the free courses will help to promote safety and encourage divers "to be mindful of all the users of our roadways."

For more information on LCC's free RiderCourse, call 455-0479 or visit hawaii.gov/dot/motorcyclesafety.