Motorcyclist Think! Bike Guide

For some motorists, motorcyclists are their worst nightmare! Motorcyclists are seen by some drivers as hazards on the road. They often appear as if from nowhere, and speed past drivers on some of the most dangerous roads. However, the latest government campaign called Think! Bike aims to change those views. They don’t want drivers to judge motorcyclists as rebels on the road; they want us to see them as people – i.e. a mother or a father, or as someone’s daughter.

Motorcyclists are 57 more times likely to be injured in a serious or fatal crash than car drivers. That is why it is important that motorists keep an eye out for bikes when on the road. They should check their blind spots before turning to make sure that no bikes are behind or to the side of  them.

If you are a motorcyclist, you must also show a duty of care to other road users. A lot of motorbikes are seen as speed machines – this doesn’t mean they are. Just like any other vehicle, as a motorcyclist, you should still stick to the speed limit. Failure to do so could result in a road traffic accident, and puts the lives of you and other road users at risk.

When using your motorbike you should wear the advised protective clothing to help protect you if you do become involved in an accident. All motorcyclists should wear protective headgear, gloves and body clothing.

If you become involved in a road traffic accident, you or the other party should contact the emergency services if anyone is seriously injured. You may also need to contact the police if the road needs shutting off due to any debris in the road. Like any other road traffic accident, you should take down the contact details of the other parties involved, along with their insurance details.

If the accident wasn’t your fault and you have suffered an injury, you may be able to make an injury compensation claim. You have a three-year time limit in making a claim so the sooner you act the better.