Motorcyclists are being urged to continue to take every opportunity to protect themselves on the road this Motorcycle Awareness Month, while drivers are being reminded to stay alert and look out for riders to help prevent serious crashes.
Latest data shows motorcyclists account for around one in five road deaths and almost a quarter of all serious injuries in NSW, despite motorcycles making up only 3.7 per cent of registered vehicles.
Motorcycle Awareness Month is an annual initiative of the Motorcycle Council of NSW and is supported by Transport for NSW, encouraging riders and drivers to take extra care and help reduce motorcycle crashes on NSW roads.
This year, Transport for NSW is encouraging riders to think beyond minimum safety requirements and consider emerging technologies to provide every available layer of protection before they ride.
A recent report, commissioned by Transport for NSW, into wearable motorcycle airbag vests found the best-performing vest reduced the risk of serious chest injury by up to 76 per cent on impact.
Around one in four seriously injured motorcycle riders sustain chest injuries, making protection for the chest a critical area for improving rider safety.
New laws
This reminder comes off the back of new laws for learner and provisional motorcycle riders, which were introduced by the NSW government earlier this year.
Learner riders must now wear an approved high-visibility vest or jacket when riding, and NSW learner and provisional riders (P1 and P2) must wear approved protective gloves when riding.
Riders are also reminded to check the safety rating of their gear before they purchase it. Through the MotoCAP website, riders can compare jackets, pants, gloves and helmets, with several products now achieving the maximum five-star safety rating.
Transport for NSW is encouraging riders to choose the highest level of protection possible every time they get on their bike. For information on the safety of protective gear and helmets, visit motocap.com.au.
Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said, ‘Motorcyclists are some of our most vulnerable road users, which is why we’re encouraging riders to take every opportunity to protect themselves.
‘The right protective gear can make a significant difference in a crash, whether that’s an approved high-visibility vest, quality protective clothing, or emerging technologies like airbag vests.
‘The findings of this research are promising and highlight the potential for new technologies to further improve rider safety, alongside safe riding behaviour. We’re also reminding other motorists to look twice for motorcycles, particularly when turning, changing lanes or entering traffic,’ she said.
‘Looking out for motorcyclists is something every road user can do to help save lives.’
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