Week of campaigning to highlight motorcycle and bicycle safety on the road begins tomorrow

Police in Suffolk are supporting a national initiative to highlight motorcycle and bicycle safety on the road, which takes place this week.

The “2 Wheels” campaign, organised by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, begins on Monday, April 11, and runs until Sunday, April 17, with the aim to raise awareness among motorists – as well as riders – about how to improve driver/rider behaviour to enhance road safety.

Motorcyclists make up just 1% of the motoring population yet are 16-times more likely to be injured in a serious or fatal collision as opposed to car drivers. They therefore remain one of the most vulnerable road users, alongside cyclists.

Officers will be placing an additional focus on the safety of road users on two wheels during the campaign, where possible by educating riders about the dangers of not having the correct skills, knowledge and personal protection equipment. However, compliance with road traffic regulations will be enforced where appropriate.

The campaign is also an opportunity to make all road users think about the safety of those on two wheels and improving driver behaviour. Many collisions involving cyclists are as a result of vehicles passing them too closely or not being aware of them at junctions.

Inspector Gary Miller, of the Roads and Armed Policing Team, said: “As a keen motorcyclist myself, I cannot stress how important it is to raise the risks faced by roads users on two wheels as where cars are continually being made safer, those on motorcycles and bicycles retain many of the same risks they always have.

“We use this week to focus on education – and that means education for both those on two wheels and other road users. While unfortunately many collisions are caused as a result of poor riding, in many cases – especially in respect of cyclists – collisions are caused by impatient and careless driving.

“It is incumbent on all road users to consider their own safety as well as the safety of others. Motorcyclists and cyclists should ensure they are wearing all the necessary safety equipment to protect themselves and to ride considerately and responsibly.

“Finally, I would urge drivers of other vehicles to take extra care when travelling near to cyclists or motorcyclists and recognise that they are more vulnerable. Don’t drive too closely to them and allow plenty of room if overtaking.”

Motorcyclists are encouraged to take up the opportunity to improve their riding skills by attending a Safe Rider course. The monthly courses run until October and more information can be found on the Suffolk Police website: Safe Rider Workshops | Suffolk Constabulary

More information about Cycle safety can be found on the Government’s THINK! Website here: Cycle Safety – THINK!