A CAMPAIGN to make the roads safer for motorcyclists in the winter was launched yesterday.

The two-week campaign by Durham Constabulary aims to reduce the number of casualties involving motorcyclists by encouraging other motorists to ensure their vehicles are well lit and making them more aware of motorcyclists' presence.

It comes after analysis showed that more than half of the 117 collisions involving motorcycles, recorded by the force between January 1 and August 1, happened when the driver of a larger vehicle did not see the motorcycle.

PC Dave Nixon, Durham Constabulary's casualty reduction officer, said: "Now that the nights are becoming darker earlier and there is a tendency towards foggy, rainy weather, which can affect visibility at any time of day, it is particularly important that motorists have their vehicles adequately lit, and that bikers, pedal cyclists and pedestrians wear bright clothing so they can be easily seen.

"We know that with regard to motorcyclists in particular, drivers just don't see them, and the dark mornings and early evenings associated with the onset of winter create an extra hazard for them."

During the campaign, officers will be telling drivers to give vehicle lights, tyres and windscreens particular attention.

They will use education, encouragement and enforcement to deter motorists from using unsafe vehicles.

Those whose vehicles fall below the required standard will be prosecuted.