More motorcycles could mean fewer casualties

According to a recent poll from the AA, 85% of drivers say that motorcyclists are ‘hard to see’.

The stats were presented by the current president of the AA, Edmund King, whilst addressing a motorcycling conference on ‘Sharing The Roads’ in London this week.

Worringly the poll also found that 57% of all car drivers are ‘often surprised’ by a motorcycle appearing from nowhere.

However, Mr King believes that a clearer and more pronounced approach from those in charge of transport policy could greatly increase motorcycle awareness.

“We have heard much lately about improving the safety of cyclists from the Prime Minister downwards yet motorcyclists appear to be the forgotten cousins. Yet motorbikes and scooters can play a vital role in helping to reduce congestion and enhance mobility in our towns and cities.”

“We need a step change in attitudes to provide a positive role for powered two-wheelers in our transport strategy. Safer, more fuel-efficient bikes coupled with serious inclusion of motorcycling within transport policy could bring benefits for all road users. All too often motorcycling is written off as deemed to be unsafe.”

In the same AA poll, it was found that an increase of motorcycles on the roads would greatly aid in the overall visibility of bikes and motorcyclists, with 54% of people surveyed saying that they would be more aware of motorcycles if there where more bikes on the road. Encouragingly, 13% would also consider using a motorcycle themselves for their daily commute.