Motorcycles - think safe

Riding a motorcycle can be fun and exciting but unfortunately it is also associated with a significant accident and casualty risk. Bikers represent a very small proportion of road users. However, there is a growing trend for more of them being involved in accidents on our roads.

Motorcycling is a popular form of transport and seems to be gaining popularity, especially among riders of large, powerful machines.

The term motorcycle encompasses a wide variety of vehicles, from small low-powered mopeds and scooters to large, high-powered motorcycles capable of reaching speeds approaching 200 mph. However, motorcyclists are also among the most vulnerable road users.

Unfortunately, data about motorcycle use is fairly sparse and does not capture the full level of motorcycling. There is also very little published data to indicate the level of motorcycle use between different age groups and on different types and sizes of motorcycle. Such data would be very useful in estimating accident risk and rates.

A report issued by The Advisory Group on Motorcycles and recently presented to the British government indicates that the growth of motorcycle use has increased by over half since 1998. Figures are showing that the total is now 1.5 million bikes, up by half when compared to 2003. In comparison, in Malta there are currently approximately 13,400 motorcycles, 300 of which are self-drive. The report also indicates that casualty statistics are also on the increase.

These increases are not surprising as the report reveals that motorcycle traffic increased by five per cent on the previous year. Consequently, motorcycles deserve their reputation for danger, since motorcyclists represent less than one per cent of road traffic but suffer 18 per cent of deaths and serious injuries. Furthermore, motorcyclists are 45 times more likely to be killed on the road than car drivers and four times more likely to be killed than cyclists - and these figures are rising.

The two most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents are the failure of other road users to see the motorcycle and the incorrect use of motorcycles.

Research indicates that the prime cause of most motorcycle accidents is the actions of other road users, especially car drivers. Failing to anticipate the presence and likely actions of a motorcyclist and emerging from a junction into the path of a rider are common errors. However, it is also clear that a large proportion of motorcycle accidents are primarily the fault of the rider and often involve the rider losing control on a bend or overtaking another vehicle.

Younger motorcyclists are also more likely to have accidents than older ones. Hence one may argue that the law should restrict the size and power of motorcycles that may be used by novices and require them to take training before riding on the road. However, there has been relatively little research to evaluate the effectiveness of training schemes or to conclusively establish whether trained motorcyclists are safer than untrained ones.

At the other end of the spectrum are motorcyclists, usually aged 30 years and over, who have retained a full motorcycle licence and re-start motorcycling after a break of many years - commonly termed "Born Again Bikers". In addition to lacking experience in riding in traffic due to a long period of absence from motorcycling, such riders are often not experienced in riding the type of powerful motorcycle they can now afford to purchase.

Hence, as with all road users, motorcyclists are responsible for their own safety and that of other road users. This means that they should use the road within the law and with all possible care.

The number of motorcycle accidents and casualties is still far too high and improvements are possible in several areas. The report includes a number of recommendations, such as raising awareness, more attention to regulations and the tightening of some, a complete education and training programme, tougher tests and other similar measures to reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents.

Less realistically, the report also recommends bike magazines to stop glamorising speed and giving tips about straight, empty country roads. Others suggest a tiered licensing system, already used in Japan, which would prevent new riders qualifying and then jumping straight on to fire-breathing racing machines.

These results show that the risk being borne by insurers with regard to motorcycles is considerable and the premiums have to take this into account.

Being two wheelers, motor-cyclists are more susceptible to various risks. Hence one cannot insure a motorbike whose risk factor is considerably higher than other vehicles at a rate that does not take into account all the risks involved. Recent risk shocks include increases in injury awards, the introduction of compulsory insurance liability for pillion riders and a latent inflationary factor where foreign court awards are given in respect of Maltese accidents involving self-drive motorcycles. Changes to costs clearly have an upward impact on premiums.

Riding a motorcycle can be fun and exciting but it has risks. Fortunately, most of them can be avoided by following some simple safety tips each and every time you ride. Here are a few suggestions that will help safeguard your safety before you ride and while you're out on the open road.

Before you ride:

¤ Know the law and be prepared.
Make sure you and your bike are properly licensed before you hit the road. Get insurance so you and your pillion rider are properly protected. Check out the policy terms and conditions.

And be aware of the current road conditions - don't take unnecessary risks if the conditions are unfavourable. Be extra cautious in the wet as the rain, dew, oils from other vehicles and moisture tend to make conditions very slick. Read your owner's manual and make sure you have it and a small tool kit with you when you're riding.

¤ Gear up.
Every time you ride, be sure to wear protective gear in case of an accident. A helmet, sturdy jacket, long pants, boots and gloves are your best bet for optimum protection.

¤ Stand out.
Brightly coloured clothing can help you stand out in traffic to make other drivers aware of you. While you're riding, use your headlight, avoid other vehicles' blind spots, drive carefully and be prepared to use your horn.

¤ Check it out.
Be sure to check that your bike is running properly before hitting the road. Always check mirrors, tyre pressure, fuel level, gauges and suspension. Follow the recommended service schedule for your bike and be sure to have all repairs made by an authorised repairer.

On the road:

¤ Distance yourself.
Always be sure to leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you. That might be your only way out in the event that the car behind you fails to stop in time. Give yourself reaction time and protect your safe zone.

¤ Ride defensively.
Three-quarters of all motorcycle accidents involve collisions with cars. Most of these occur because the driver of the car didn't see the motorcycle. Consequently, it pays to be extra aware of what other drivers on the road are doing.

Ride smart.

¤ Be sharp.
Alcohol, drugs and fatigue can all impair your ability to reason and make sound judgments.

¤ Take care.
If you decide to have a passenger riding pillion, make sure s/he is wearing proper safety gear and instruct her/him on proper riding techniques. A rider's weight and movement can really affect your bike's handling so double check that road conditions are favourable and be extra sure that your bike is in top condition.

Safe riding!

The author is EU and internal affairs executive, Malta Insurance Association.