Motorists are being urged to take a second look for motorbikes after it was revealed that more than half of biker collisions on North East roads have resulted in riders being killed or seriously injured.
The shocking statistic has prompted the launch of the ‘Life on a Bike’ campaign by Road Safety GB North East.
This initiative, supported by local bikers, police, and fire services, aims to highlight the increased risks bikers face and encourage motorists to be more vigilant to reduce casualties amongst the North East.
The campaign aims to humanise bikers by showcasing their lives beyond riding, providing insight into their families, hobbies and work lives.
The campaign features emotive videos where local bikers share personal stories, emphasising that they are more than just riders.
Peter Slater, Chair of RSGB NE, revealed the alarming statistics from 2019 to 2023, there were 1,501 biker collisions in the region, resulting in 57 deaths, 755 serious injuries, and 689 slight injuries.
“Bikers are vulnerable, so we see high fatality and injury rates. We’re appealing to drivers to take a second look for bikes- it could save a life,” said Mr Slater.
Across the regions, County Durham and Northumberland report the highest number of motorcyclist casualties, which is to be expected because of their size and the rural nature of the roads.
However, urban areas such as Darlington, Middlesbrough and Newcastle are now starting to see high numbers of bike casualties, demonstrating that biker collisions are common across both urban and rural areas.
Sergeant Steve Armstrong, of Northumbria Police’s Motorcycle Unit, said “Everyone has a vital role to play in keeping all road users safe. Please take extra care and remember to look twice and think bike.”
Richard and Suzy Baylin, both 59, from Marton in Middlesbrough, stress the importance of always looking twice.
Suzy, a substitute primary school teacher, said: “My top tip for both bikers and drivers is to look, wait and look again. You never know what could be coming around the corner.”
The campaign also emphasises the importance of defensive riding and advanced training for bikers.
Mandy Burns, 53, from Sunderland, who has been riding for 32 years, advises bikers to “ride defensively and understand road positioning”.
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Local authorities and emergency services are united in urging all road users to be more cautious.
A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said “We would like to encourage drivers to take that moment to look and then look again before making their manoeuvre. Taking time to ensure the safety of others is time well spent.”
For more information on the ‘Life on a Bike’ campaign and to watch the featured videos, visit the RSGB NE website HERE.
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