The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána are appealing to motorcycle riders to slow down, “ease off the throttle” and keep within speed limits.
The appeal is being made in response to the number of motorcycle fatalities seen this year – to date in 2021, six motorcyclists have been killed on Irish roads.
“As motorcyclists we are among the most vulnerable of road users because we have very little protection in the event of a collision,” said Stephen Murphy, Supervisory Approved Driving Instructor Examiner with the RSA, and expert motorcyclist.
“However, we can help reduce our vulnerability by taking some simple steps such as wearing the appropriate PPE and high visibility clothing to make ourselves visible to other road-users. It is also extremely important to show restraint and reduce speed, and never ever ride a motorcycle under the influence of an intoxicant.”
While motorcyclists are being urged to take extra care on the roads, the RSA and An Garda Síochána are also reminding motorists that they need to watch out for motorcyclists when using the road.
Crash research shows that the four main causal factors that contribute to fatal motorcycle crashes are:
- A motorcyclist overtaking another vehicle turning right, resulting in the motorcyclist colliding head on into the side of the turning vehicle.
- A motorcyclist colliding head on with an oncoming vehicle while the motorcycle was overtaking a vehicle.
- A motorcyclist losing control while taking a corner / bend and crossing into the path of an oncoming vehicle resulting in a head on collision.
- Another vehicle (car, van, truck) turning or driving through a junction / joining a main road from a minor road and colliding with a motorcyclist.
Garda Adrian Corcoran, DMR Roads Policing, An Garda Síochána added: “As a Garda motorcyclist and a motorcycle enthusiast I know how enjoyable motorcycle riding can be. However, motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable groups of road users on our roads.
“If you are returning to motorcycling after the winter months, please ensure that your motorcycle is in a roadworthy condition. Carry out a walk around check prior to each journey. Always wear appropriate PPE, and Hi-Viz clothing will make you more visible to other road users.”
The RSA’s motorcycle safety advertising campaign ‘Signs’ highlighting the dangers of speeding and encouraging riders to be aware of their vulnerability on the road is currently on air during April and is being supported by a series of information videos advising motorcyclists on the four known dangerous manoeuvres for motorcyclists:
Links to videos:
Negotiating Corners and Bends
When a vehicle is joining the main road
Overtaking when vehicle turning right
Overtaking when vehicle travelling in the same direction
