Craig Carey-Clinch, CEO of the NMC, emphasizes that current strategies often fail to address the needs of motorcyclists. As a result, safety improvements are not being made because infrastructure and measures are not sufficiently tailored to this group. The NMC advocates an approach that specifically integrates motorcycles into traffic planning, thereby initiating a positive cycle of greater safety and better infrastructure.
International examples and the current situation in the UK
A look abroad shows that other countries have long recognized motorcycles as part of sustainable mobility. There, two-wheelers benefit from regulations such as the use of bus lanes, specially designed parking spaces, and adapted road planning. Accompanying measures to improve safety are also being implemented. The NMC sees this as a model for the UK.
However, according to the NMC, the United Kingdom is currently making little progress in terms of motorcycle accident statistics. The figures have been stagnating for several years, and the number of fatal accidents is even higher than in 2013—the year in which the current testing and licensing system was introduced.
Lack of data hinders effective measures
Another problem, in the NMC’s view, is the inadequate data base. The last comprehensive international accident study (MAIDS) was published back in 1999. To date, there is a lack of up-to-date and practical studies that provide information on the causes of accidents, rider behavior, or the influence of protective equipment. Without this information, targeted improvements in transport policy are hardly possible.
Saul Jeavons from the Transafe Network emphasizes the need to analyze accidents comprehensively and systematically, taking into account riders, motorcycle models, road conditions, and protective equipment. According to the NMC and Transafe Network, a newly created Road Safety Investigation Branch could ensure that the findings actually lead to improvements.
Specific demands of the NMC
The NMC calls for motorcycles to be firmly included in upcoming strategies such as the Integrated National Transport Strategy and the Road Safety Strategy. This includes targeted investments in infrastructure, the promotion of training programs such as Learn-Ride-Enjoy-Repeat, BikeSafe, and Biker Down, as well as measures against unsafe protective equipment. A revision of the regulations for driving tests and licenses is also on the agenda.
According to the NMC, better recognition of motorcycles in the transport system could not only increase safety, but also have positive effects on traffic, the environment, and healthcare costs.
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