MORE AWARENESS BY CAR DRIVERS COULD CONTRIBUTE TO MOTORCYCLE SAFETY SAYS RESEARCH
14 March 2005 - Motor Cycle Industry Association Ltd

Research commissioned by the Motor Cycle Industry Association has found that 69 percent of people in the UK think that more awareness by car drivers could make a useful contribution to motorcycle safety on the roads.

Launched to coincide with National Motorcycle Safety Week 13-19th March, it reveals that people aged 35-44 years were more likely (73.1%) to consider car driver awareness as the most useful change that could reduce the risk for motorcyclists. In the North-East 78.5% of respondents chose car driver awareness as the most important contribution.

Training was another factor that people agreed could improve motorcycle safety. Training for bike riders was considered to be the second most important factor by almost two-thirds (61.7%). People aged 25-34 years were least likely to agree with this ( 57.3%) and people aged over 55 years were most likely (70%).

Over half (54%) said that advanced training for car and bike users would make a useful contribution. In Northern Ireland this figure increased to 62.3% and was at its lowest for people in the South West.

Craig Carey-Clinch, MCI’s Director of Public Affairs said, “The research suggests that people think all road users should take responsibility for their actions on the road and act thoughtfully and behave considerately to others, especially vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists.

“Training and assessments with credible organisations are one simple step that can help riders to improve their skills and reduce the risk of accidents. The industry is committed to creating a safer environment for motorcyclists and has recently launched a DVD called a Street, A Track, An Open road. It is a humorous, entertaining documentary that was produced to get riders thinking about their own experiences and pick up valuable tips and advice.”

More information about riding tips, video footage and interviews are available on the website www.stordvd.com. Copies of the DVD can also be purchased online for £3.00. All profits go to BEN, the motor industry charity.

www.mcia.co.uk

More News
  For March 2005
  From Motor Cycle Industry Association Ltd
  For Safety
  Biker247.com Home Page