Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month: New data shows disconnect between riders and other road users
As Motorcycle Safety Awareness Week comes to an end, new insights suggest there’s work to be done before there’s full harmony on our roads between riders and drivers.
In a recent survey of riders, conducted by motorcycle insurance comparison site Entire Cover, it has been revealed that over half (53%) of respondents have been involved in an accident as the main rider. When asked the reason for the accident, an overwhelming majority (65%) claimed this was due to a fault of another road user.
And the data continues to show a disconnect between riders and other road users. Nearly seven in 10 (67%) respondents agree that other road users are more dangerous than riders, 62% believe road users are the biggest obstacle on the roads, and over half (55%) believe that other road users are careless around riders.
However, 64% do acknowledge that some riders drive dangerously on the roads.
And this issue is impacting Britain’s riders. So much so that 42% say they don’t get out on their motorcycle as much as they’d like, as they’re fearful of having an accident, and 38% admitting they feel safer driving a car. Less than 10% feel safer on their bike.
So, what can all road users do to drive safely when navigating riders on the roads?
- Check the road is clear when pulling out of a junction. Bikes can often be travelling faster than they appear to be.
- Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or turning. Check, and check again.
- Give motorcycles plenty of space – particularly in poor weather conditions.
- Don’t forget to signal when turning or changing lanes.
- Treat them as a car – don’t be tempted to squeeze past a motorcycle and always give riders lots of space.
Commenting, Daniel Nield from Entire Cover comments: “With the current bout of warm weather and summer on its way, we expect to see more motorcyclists on the roads. Our data shows that other road users are an obstacle for riders, and while it’s incredibly important for riders to know how to safely navigate other road users, it’s imperative that drivers understand how to drive safely around motorbikes. With more understanding and safer driving on the roads, this can only benefit all road users and hopefully, help to make our roads safer for everyone.”
For more results from this survey, please visit: https://www.entirecoverinsurance.co.uk/news-and-events/in-the-news/riding-conditions.