Motorcycle Safety Campaign 2023
Motorcyclists will always be more vulnerable than other drivers and are being asked to take care on the road this summer.
The annual motorcycle safety campaign runs from April to September, covering a period that sees the highest number of motorcyclists killed or seriously injured. The campaign aims to promote motorcycle safety and raise awareness amongst other drivers.
Over 450 motorcyclists were involved in serious collisions in 2021 and 27 motorcyclists died in 2022/23 – 22 of which were during the campaign months. Motorcyclists make up only one per cent of road users in Scotland yet account for around 17 per cent of all road deaths.
Superintendent Stewart Mackie, deputy head of road policing and keen biker, said: “My message to fellow riders is know how to take care on the road because it will save lives and help prevent life changing injuries.
“I understand the freedom and enjoyment that biking gives people but I’ve seen the devastation caused by serious collisions and the impact on loved ones.
“Loss of control is the most common factor in motorcyclist collisions. Look out for hazards like loose gravel, the right clothing and helmets matter, and position your bike for the best view around bends.
“If you’re another road user, take care at junctions and look out for motorcyclists, especially in rural areas.
“We all have a responsibility to take care on Scotland’s roads.”
Engagement and enforcement activity will take place throughout the spring and summer months using both marked and unmarked police vehicles.
Around 90 per cent of motorcycle casualties are men and most collisions happen in rural areas, particularly weekends.
Police Scotland’s Motorcycle Unit, in partnership with road safety groups, hold training courses for motorcyclists during the campaign months. Rider Refinement courses are seen as a gateway to advanced motorcycling and dates will be released in the coming weeks.
More information on motorcycle safety can be found here: Motorcyclists - Road Safety Scotland
