Flag danger for bikers

During the World Cup motorcyclists face as additional road hazard in the shape of England flags coming adrift from cars.

The RAC Foundation and BMF have joined forces to encourage drivers to support the national team safely after a spot-check of the dual-carriageway A13 revealed an average of three fallen flags per mile, with more around on-ramps where cars were picking up speed.

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One BMF member has already encountered a flyaway flag, saying “I had the flag and plastic mast hit my helmet, luckily I didn’t come off but it scared the hell out of me.”

If a flag does fall or break free, the driver is at risk of being prosecuted under the Road vehicles (Construction and Use) regulations 1986, which demands vehicles, parts or accessories shall be such that they are not likely to cause danger to other road users.

Car drivers are reminded to ensure the flag is specifically designed for car use, to give passengers a warning not to open the window, and take the flags in before driving on the motorway

“A wayward flag hitting a motorcyclist in the face could be a serious own goal,” said BMF spokesman Jeff Stone. “Motorcyclsists want to see England win – they don’t want to be brought down by their own side.”