Initiatives To Improve Motorcyclist Safety 'Are Making An Impact'

Falling motorcycle casualty rates on roads in the UK provide evidence that efforts to improve safety have been successful, the RMI Motorcycle Rider Training Association (MRTA) has claimed.

Motorcycling is an increasingly popular form of transport. However, motorcyclists are also one of the most vulnerable road users. Despite forming only 1% of road traffic, motorcyclists account for 20% (one in five) of road deaths and serious injuries.

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The vast majority (93%) of motorcyclist casualties are riders, with passengers forming just 7% of casualties. Motorcyclist casualties are predominately male. The two age groups with the highest risk are younger riders, aged 16 to 19 years, on mopeds and small engine motorcycles, and riders aged 20 to 49 years, but particularly those aged 30 to 39 years, on larger machines.

Almost three quarters (72%) of motorcyclist casualties occur on built-up roads (roads with a speed limit of up to 40 mph), even though such roads carry less than half of motorcycle traffic. Motorcyclist casualties are highly seasonal. Fatalities and overall casualties peak during the Spring and Summer months, which reflecting increased riding during this period.

Between 1994 and 1998, the casualty rate per 100 million vehicle kilometres was 621. It had dropped to 420 by 2007 - a 32 per cent decrease. Much of the increase in motorcyclist casualties may be due to the increase in the amount of motorcycling.

Commenting on the findings, the MRTA chairman said: "Any reduction in casualties is welcome, particularly given the increasing popularity and usage of motorcycles and scooters."

He added the figures demonstrate the training industry's work on safety is going well. However, there is still much work to do.

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