[visordown.com] - AA survey suggests more motorcyclists could improve safety

[Ninjette Newsbot]

Can you see us now?


FIFTY-FOUR per cent of drivers say they would be more aware of motorcyclists if there were more of us on the road, an AA survey has found.

Fifty-seven per cent of drivers polled said they are 'often surprised when a motorcycle appears from nowhere', increasing to 63% of woman and over-65s.

The findings of the poll, in which more than 20,000 drivers were questioned, are to be presented to the Department for Transport this morning in a conference entitled 'More motorcycles could reduce casualties?'

AA President Edmund King said: “We need to ensure that drivers are much more aware of the presence and possible presence of motorbikes and indeed cycles on our roads. It is worrying that half of all drivers are often caught out by 'invisible' motorcycles seemingly coming out of nowhere. Motorcyclists also need to always be aware that they might not be seen.

"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."



Related Content

Cat & Fiddle ranked UK’s ‘most persistently’ dangerous road
Policewoman escapes prosecution after killing biker
No private prosecution of Collette Carpenter
Motorcyclist jailed over pillion’s death
Motorcycle accident? Here's what you're most likely to hit


Click here for full story...