Motorcycles
THINK BIKE THINK BIKER
Injuries to motorcyclists are out of proportion to their presence on our roads. Motorcyclists are just 1% of total road traffic, but account for 21% of all road user deaths.
The facts
- Motorcyclists are 50 times more likely to be killed or seriously injured (KSI) in serious or fatal crashes than car drivers.
- In 2009 472 motorcyclists died and 5,350 were seriously injured in road collisions in Great Britain. Motorcyclist KSIs have fallen since 2008 when 493 motorcyclists were killed and 5,556 were seriously injured on Britain’s roads.
- In 2009, 50% of motorcycle accidents occurred in collisions involving another vehicle at junctions.
- motorcyclists – The highway codeOpens new window
- Safety helmets and protective clothing for motorcyclists
THINK! advice for drivers
It might be frustrating at times to see motorcycles weaving in and out of traffic, but a hostile reaction on your part can often make the situation worse. Here are a few simple ways of avoiding crashes with motorcyclists:
Keep your distance
Driving too close can intimidate a less experienced motorcyclist.
Check for bikes when changing lanes
A motorcyclist may be in the space you want to move into, or moving into it fast. Remember your blind spot.
Check for bikes when turning
Parked cars or large vehicles can obstruct your view of a motorcyclist.
Motorcyclists might pass you on either side
Double-check for motorcyclists, whether you’re turning left or right.
Check for motorcycles at junctions.
Remember to look carefully for bikes, as it is often difficult to see them when they are coming out of junctions. Always look out for them before you emerge from a junction because they could be approaching faster than you think.
Park safely
Check for motorcyclists before opening your car door – and ensure that your passengers do the same. When you pull away, remember that motorcyclists can be harder to see when they’re approaching than a car would be.
