According to the private emergency medical care provider, ER24, they have dealt with more than 1,100 accidents involving motorcyclists during the year.
In the US, motorcycle accidents are also cause for concern. In 2013, the US Department of Transportation's Fatality Analysis Reporting System found that 42% of motorcyclist deaths were single vehicle accidents, whilst 58% involved another vehicle.
"Whilst mechanical failure, bad road conditions, adverse weather conditions and a host of other factors no doubt contribute to motorcycle accidents, the way in which other road users interact with motorcyclists, and vice versa, is concerning," says Elmarie Twilley, spokesperson for Virseker Insurance.
Virseker offers these important tips for motorists to bear in mind and apply:
- Too many motorists who have hit and injured a motorcyclist claim that the motorcycle 'came out of nowhere'. Because of its small size, a motorbike can be easily concealed in a car's blind spots. Take an extra moment to look for motorbikes, when you are changing lanes or turning at intersections.
- Motorists should keep a safe following distance and allow approximately four seconds between themselves and a motorbike. Advances in braking systems allow some motorcycles to stop very quickly - making a four-second 'safety cushion' a must.
- Motorcyclists often slow by down-shifting, not activating the brake light. Allow more following distance. At intersections, predict a motorcyclist may slow down without visual warning.
- The indicators on most motorcycles are not self-cancelling and some riders, especially inexperienced riders, may sometimes forget to turn them off. Motorists are encouraged to make absolutely sure that a biker is intent on turning before crossing his/her path.
- Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily, avoid road debris and minimise the effect of passing vehicles and wind. Understand that motorcyclists adjust lane position for a purpose, not to be reckless.
- Be very cautious when it starts to rain, as this causes oil and other spills to rise to the road surface - something that is especially hazardous for bikers, as motorcycles have less than half the amount of grip that a car has.
"Motorists and bikers alike need to focus on being respectful and considerate towards each other - it's an attitude change that could save many lives each year. Also make sure that you have your insurer's roadside/emergency assist numbers at the ready in the event that something does go wrong," Twilley concludes.
