Making up only 2% of road users, motorcyclists make up 18% of Sussex's killed and seriously injured road casualties.
Here are some important things to remember:
- Be seen - overtake - don't undertake
- Wear conspicuous protective clothing
- Ride at an appropriate speed - within the limit. Give yourself time to see, be seen, plan and react
- Position yourself to see and be seen - take car of parked cars potentially opening doors
- Look once, twice at junctions - and coming up to junctions
Junctions are one of the most dangerous places for motorcyclists in the city. You look small in a mirror and drivers may misjudge your speed - assuming they've seen you at all. The trial of motorcyclists in two signed bus lanes means this is especially important in these areas.
Things you can do:
- Get a Crash Card from us or your local bike dealer - in the free Sussex Biker magazine. This alerts paramedics of your vital "statistics" if the worst happens on the roads - enabling them to be more effective.
- Consider advanced rider courses by IAM, the BikeSafe course run by local emergency service personnel, or the Biker Down course, run by East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, which trains you in emergency first aid awareness in case you are first at scene at a bike collision.
- Ensure that you aren't distracted and are fully aware of your surroundings. Motorcyclists are amongst the least likely road users to use their phones/smartphones but the temptation to be connected can be there.
Remember most collisions happen within five miles of home - be aware of what's around you!
