19 July 2011
Bikers Urged To Gear Up For Safety
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging motorcyclists, scooter and moped users to bike safely on the roads this summer and ensure they are wearing the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) any time they go out on the bike.
This comes as figures reveal that motorcyclists represent 1 in 10 road deaths so far this year, despite making up less than 2% of the total vehicle fleet. As of 14 July 2011, 11 motorcyclists and 1 pillion passenger have died on Irish roads (compared to 9 to the same date last year).
The RSA is asking riders to be aware of their vulnerability on the roads as research shows that motorcyclists are three times more likely to be killed on Irish roads than in any other EU country. The RSA is advising riders to make sure they are geared up with the correct helmet, jacket and trousers, reflective material and footwear whenever they’re on the bike.
Mr Noel Brett, Chief Executive of the RSA said: “Motorcyclists, moped and scooter users are among our most vulnerable of road users, simply because they have very little protection in the event of a crash. Yet, every day, we see people on bikes wearing jeans and t-shirts with little regard for their own safety. It’s tempting when the weather is warm to leave the proper gear at home but by not wearing it, you risk horrific injuries if you crash. In fact, coming off a motorcycle at 50kph is similar to throwing yourself off the second storey of a building onto a cheese-grater. Do you really want to risk this or worse by not wearing the proper gear?”
Mr Brett also asked other road-users to be aware of motorcyclists when out on the roads: “Half of all crashes involving motorcyclists are caused by other drivers so we’re urging all drivers to check their mirrors carefully and watch out for bikers, particularly at junctions and when making right turns.
During the summer, there are more bikers, scooter and moped users on the roads so please be extra cautious when using the roads.”
The RSA has the following advice for motorcyclists, scooter and moped users:
- Motorcyclists, moped and scooter-users are among the most vulnerable of our road-users. You don’t have the protection of a car so investing in proper Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) is a must.
- Helmets must be worn at all times and must be securely fastened. Clean your visor gently with warm soapy water. Replace it if it is scratched.
- Jackets and trousers should offer adequate protection against impact and abrasion.
- Body armour on exposed areas such as the back, knees, elbows, shoulders, hips and shins should be adjustable so it fits snugly and does not move in a crash.
- Coming off a motorcycle at 50kph is similar to throwing yourself off the second storey of a building onto a cheese-grater.
- A good reflective jacket is a must and will make you more visible on the road, increasing your profile.
- Always wear protective gloves and footwear that at least comes over the ankle. Use ear protection on long journeys.
- Always service your bike regularly and maintain it in good condition especially tyres, brakes, etc.
The Road Safety Authority is now live on Facebook and Twitter. or visit www.rsa.ie for more information on motorcycle safety.
ENDS For further information, please contact: RSA Communications Office: 096 25008