Would you know what to do? - Motorcycle Safety Week

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS), Safer Roads Humber and The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) are encouraging motorcyclists to prepare themselves and their bikes, to help stay safe as part of Biker Down national safety campaign which runs from the 3 - 9 April.

Dan Quin, NFCC lead for road safety, said: “Motorcyclists are over-represented in collision and casualty statistics nationally. With an increase in the number of people using motorbikes for both commuting and enjoyment, our aim is to encourage riders to do all they can to ride safe and ensure they do all they can to be visible on the road. This campaign at the beginning of the motorcycling season is a great opportunity for all partners to deliver a range of safety messages across the UK.”

Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Prevention at HFRS, said “Anyone who rides a motorcycle or scooter knows that they can be the fastest way to get from A to B. However, being prepared for unexpected situations on the road is crucial. Collaborating with Safer Roads Humber, Sarah is proud to share their top tips for motorcyclists to help everyone to stay safe on the road.”

Top safety tips from colleagues at Safer Roads Humber:

Make sure you:

• Are alert and observant this is important when you are negotiating junctions or roundabouts and when you need to look out for other vulnerable road users - children, pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders. Anticipate the actions of other motorists.

• Ride at a speed that will enable you to slow down and stop in good time. The unexpected can happen. And ride according to the conditions: slow down if it is wet, foggy or icy.

• Position yourself in the best place, usually the middle of the lane. But take up your road position in good time before turning right or left, showing others what you aim to do.

• Overtake safely. Can you see hazards? Is there a bend or a junction? Can you overtake without speeding up or swerving too much?

• Take a 'lifesaver' glance over your shoulder before carrying out manoeuvres when you need to know where other drivers are and what they are doing.

• Are seen. Dipped headlights, even in good daylight, can help you to be seen.

• Sometimes drivers will wind you up. But if you act aggressively you may have to pay the penalty. However tempted you are, don't race on public roads. Save it for the race track.

Motorcycle safety checklist

• Helmet: Your most important piece of kit. Make sure the fit is snug and the helmet is in good condition. Keep the visor clean, carry a can of spray cleaner and a duster. If it is scratched, replace it.

• Clothing: You need boots, trousers, gloves and a jacket to keep you dry, warm and, should the worse happen, safe. These need to be made and designed for the purpose. You will get hot in the summer, but do not be tempted to ride without any of these items. Your local dealer will give you plenty of friendly help and advice.

• Tyres: Check air pressure and tread before every ride. Also check your tyres for potential dangers like nails.

• Fluids: Check fuel, oil, brake fluid and coolant (where applicable).

• Lights: Check brake lights, indicators, head and tail lights.

• Group Riding: Requires skill and practice to be done safely and must be done in a lawful manner. Set a suitable pace for the least experienced rider in the group. Develop a system which allows the group to stay together. Arrange frequent places to stop and get together to check everyone is OK. If someone in your group drives dangerously and puts the group or themselves at risk, tell them. It is no point wishing you had when it has all gone wrong.

Find out more road safety tips at Safer Roads Humber website.

The National Young Rider Forum have good advice for new riders, click here.