I'm a Motorcyclist
Motorcyclists are more likely to be injured in serious or fatal crashes than car drivers
The latest figures for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent show that motorcyclists account for around 21 per cent of those killed or seriously injured in the county even though they represent only one per cent of road traffic.
During 2009 there were 9 bikers killed, 59 seriously injured and 291 minor injuries in the county.
The five most common factors in road accidents that involve injury to motorcyclists are:
- failed to look properly
- loss of control
- failed to judge other person's path or speed
- careless, reckless or in a hurry
- poor turn or manoeuvre
Around 21 per cent of accidents in which a motorcyclist was killed did not involve another vehicle.
Training
They're lean, mean beautiful machines capable of mind blowing speed. You'll feel like King of the road. You are not alone; more people are buying high powered sports bikes than ever before. Sales in the United Kingdom have risen by 250 per cent in just five years, and show no signs of falling. Bikes have changed a lot in the past 25 years. They are faster, handle better and look superb, but a top-class bike deserves a top-class rider and you can be that rider by taking part in further training.
The best riders will tell you that good motorcyclists never stop learning. Track champions have to continually practice their skills to stay close to the top, and even advanced professional police riders undergo personal re-training programmes to maintain their skills. Whether you are new to biking, or returning to biking after a long absence, or even an experienced rider who has never had the benefit of advanced tuition, BikeSense or BikeSafe is for you.
Road Defects
Whilst every effort is made to provide a safe environment for the road user, the requirements for safe use by motorcycles demand special consideration. There are occasions when the road surface deteriorates or ironworks become raised, as well as through diesel spillage or other hazards to motorcyclists on the road. On occasions when hazardous conditions are observed by motorcyclists or other road users, the Highways Hotline number (freephone 0800 232323) should be called to report the defect and alert the relevant department within the County Council to the problem. The Road Safety Unit is especially keen to promote the Highways Hotline to motorcyclists, who are often more aware of the issues concerning them.
Contact for Motorcyclists
For more information or enquiries regarding motorcycle issues please telephone Stafford: 01785 276616 or Stoke-on-Trent: 01782 234234. A dedicated email contact address has been set up for motorcyclists at bikers@staffordshire.gov.uk
and more information is available on the Staffordshire County Council website: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/transport/roadsafety/safermotorcycling
