Motorcyclists must heed safety

Driving is an extremely complex task and requires our complete attention to anticipate and react to situations on the road ahead.

When it comes to motorcyclists, the perceived dangers are even greater ” and this is understandable.

Motorcyclists are a vulnerable group of road users because of their lack of relative protection. Their bikes have a greater level of instability as compared to a vehicle, and at times they may not be seen by the motoring public.

Motorcycle riders are over-represented in WA’s fatal and serious injury statistics, as they only represent a small proportion of the State’s fleet. In the 10 years leading up to 2012, motorcyclists made up 13 per cent of those fatally killed or seriously injured in our State.

This year, there have been five motorcycle fatalities ” four in the metropolitan region.

With Perth’s warmer weather set to linger into March, rider numbers are higher than any other time of the year.

Sadly, this is also the period where more motorcycle fatalities have previously been experienced ” and this is why we must all take extra heed when on the roads.

There are many ways motorcyclists can minimise some of these mentioned risks:

– Protective clothing is essential to reduce the severity of injuries if in a crash.

– Bright-coloured clothing will help others see you on the road.

– Get into the habit of getting your motorcycle regularly checked and serviced.

– Stay alert and attentive to your surrounding environment.

– Don’t ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

– Keep to the speed limits and drive to conditions.

– Take breaks to avoid rider fatigue.

– Don’t assume other drivers or riders can see you.

– The best protection you can have is space between yourself and other road users.

All riders should make safety their top priority, and I remind all road users that they need to share the road and look out for motorcyclists when changing lanes, turning or going through intersections.