The FINANCIAL — More than half of all drivers (57%) are often surprised when a motorcycle appears from nowhere, according to the AA. Provisional government figures show an 8% increase in motorcyclists killed or seriously injured in the spring this year compared to the spring last year.
57% of car drivers are often surprised when a motorcycle appears from nowhere. This increases to 63% amongst females and drivers over 65 years of age. London is the region with the greatest percentage of drivers surprised by motorbikes appearing from nowhere (60%).
92% recognise that motorcyclists are vulnerable and always give them more space. 40% believe that motorcyclists are inconsiderate. The number increases in London (46%) and SE (44%) and amongst females (43%) and those aged 25-34 (49%). 88% of drivers say they always look out for motorcyclists. This increases to 90% of 45-54 year olds who are perhaps the born again bikers. 85% admit that motorcyclists are sometimes hard to see. 88% of females and those aged 24-34 believe this. The SE is the region with the highest percentage admitting this (87%), according to the Automobile Association Developments Limited.
There was a considerable cross-over between drivers and those on two wheels. Some 18% of AA members hold a motorcycle licence, 8% ride a motorcycle but 28% used to ride a motorbike but don’t now – this increases to 40% of the over 65s. Fifty per cent of drivers also have at least one bicycle in their household.
“We need to ensure that drivers are much more aware of the presence and possible presence of motorbikes and indeed cycles on our roads," Edmund King, AA president, said. "It is worrying that half of all drivers are often caught out by ‘invisible’ motorcycles seemingly coming out of nowhere. Motorcyclists also need to always be aware that they might not be seen. We have heard much lately about improving the safety of cyclists from the Prime Minister downwards yet motorcyclists appear to be the forgotten cousins. Yet motorbikes and scooters can play a vital role in helping to reduce congestion and enhance mobility in our towns and cities," he added.
“We need a step change in attitudes to provide a positive role for powered two-wheelers in our transport strategy. Safer, more fuel-efficient bikes coupled with serious inclusion of motorcycling within transport policy could bring benefits for all road users. All too often motorcycling is written off as deemed to be unsafe,” he added.
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