In the 8 years 1996-2003, motorcycles accounted for only 2% of licensed vehicles but 12% of road deaths. Therefore motorcyclists are 6 times more likely to be killed on our roads. Motorcycle and moped riders are vulnerable road users. Motorcycling can be safe. A confident and careful riding style will enable other vehicles to see you.
- Don’t assume you are visible to drivers of other vehicles
- Avoid driver’s blind spots
- Always signal clearly and early
- Watch out for pedestrians
- Don’t weave in and out of traffic
- When filtering in traffic be aware of cars changing lane, doors opening, passengers alighting and the possibility that some vehicles will turn across your path
- Use headlights day and night
- Never ever drink and ride
- Always wear a helmet to approved specifications
- Make sure your bike is road worthy and know its capabilities
- Wear brightly coloured reflective clothing
- Expect the unexpected
- Maintain a safe speed consistent with driving conditions
- On windy days allow for the breeze, as it may blow you off course
- Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Remember the two second rule.
- Complete an approved motorcycle rider training course.
Advice for Drivers
It is estimated that in over 70% of crashes involving a motorcycle and a car, the car driver is at fault. The reason is that the driver failed to anticipate the presence of the motorcycle. Most crashes occur when a vehicle emerges from a junction into the path of the motorcyclist.
Eyes Wide Open
- Be extra alert for motorcycles and mopeds at or near junctions they may be difficult to see in heavy traffic.
- Pay particular attention when making right turns across traffic, to ensure that a motorcyclist may not be coming straight through.
- Make room. Motorcyclists are entitled to a full lane of traffic, just like another car, van or truck.
- Keep a safe distance from the motorcyclist. Because of traffic conditions or other road hazards motorcyclists may have to swerve or stop suddenly.
- Check your blind spots before turning, changing lanes, reversing, or parking. Many crashes occur because a driver did not check or see the motorcyclist.
- Use extreme care when overtaking. Because of the smaller size of a bike, a car, van or truck passing too fast or too close could blow the motorcyclist out of control.
Always exercise care, caution and consideration towards all road users, especially motorcyclists.