Cycling

Transport - Motorcycles

Motorists

The majority of motorcycle crashes that involve another vehicle, happen because the other driver failed to see or give way to the motorcyclist.

The most common reason other vehicle drivers give for their involvement in motorcycle crashes is “Looked, but didn’t see him”.

Nearly 70% of all collisions at intersections involving a motorcycle and a vehicle are the fault of the driver of the vehicle.

Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than car drivers, so more likely to be hurt in a crash.

The New Zealand Travel Survey indicates that, on average, the risk of being involved in fatal or injury crash is more than 18 times higher for a motorcyclist than car driver.

You can reduce the risk you pose to motorcyclists by checking your blind spots carefully and taking extra care at intersections, when pulling out and when turning.

The numbers of two wheeled, motorised vehicles on the roads is rising. Motorcycle registrations on the North Shore have increased by 77% from 2003 to 2007 and moped registrations have increased a staggering 278% over the same period.

The prediction is that registrations will continue to increase. Help make the roads safer for all other users by looking out for them

Motorcyclists

Research has shown that wearing high visibility gear – fluorescent clothing, white helmets – reduces a motorcyclist’s risk.

The more visible you are, the less the chances are that a car will not see you and the less chance there is of being hit.

Never assume a driver has seen you. Position yourself so drivers of other vehicles will see you. Get to know their blind spots and stay out of them.

Don’t weave between lanes in heavy traffic and try to stay long enough in each driver’s rear vision mirror to make sure they have seen you.

Good gear can prevent or reduce injuries in a crash by over half. Always wear appropriate safety gear when riding.

Whatever your level, training will make you a better rider. As well as improving your handling skills, it will increase your ability to scan ahead for hazards, which will reduce your risk of being involved in a crash.

Visit www.rideforever.co.nz for information about training courses near where you live, delivered by bikers for bikers.

Always ride to the conditions. Ride and corner at safe speeds and drive no faster than a speed at which you can stop in the clear space ahead of you.

Ride defensively and ride forever!