A recent report from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) highlights alarming trends in motorcycle safety, revealing that more than one in ten motorcyclists were involved in a collision over the past two years. The study, conducted during the summer of 2023, surveyed 1,200 motorcyclists across the country, offering a comprehensive look at the state of motorcycle safety on Irish roads.
Collision Statistics and Near Misses
The National Survey of Motorcyclists found that 11% of respondents had experienced a road collision between the summer of 2021 and the summer of 2023. Even more concerning is the fact that 71% of motorcyclists reported at least one near-miss during this period. The survey revealed that younger riders, particularly those under 35, were significantly more likely to be involved in both collisions and near misses.
Nature of Collisions and Injuries
Among those who had been involved in a collision, 52% reported sustaining injuries. Alarmingly, one in three of these incidents resulted in serious injuries. The remaining 48% of collisions were classified as minor spills, where no injuries occurred, but there was potential damage to the motorcycle or other vehicles involved.
The study also identified the two most common causes of these collisions. The leading cause, accounting for 18% of incidents, was another vehicle pulling out from a side road into the motorcyclist’s path. The second most common cause, reported by 16% of motorcyclists, was another vehicle colliding with the rear or side of the motorcycle.
Riding Habits and Behavior
The survey shed light on the riding habits of motorcyclists. Over 40% of respondents reported owning two or more motorcycles. Motorcycle usage peaks during the summer, with 86% of motorcyclists riding at least once a week. Interestingly, about two-thirds of motorcyclists continue to ride weekly throughout the year, particularly those aged between 35 and 54.
However, the survey also highlighted some unsafe riding behaviors. A significant 86% of motorcyclists admitted to filtering through stationary or slow-moving vehicles at least occasionally. Additionally, 42% of riders confessed to exceeding speed limits on motorways and rural roads. Alarmingly, 3% of respondents admitted to riding after consuming alcohol within the past 12 months, with this figure rising to 6% among Dublin-based motorcyclists.
RSA’s Call for Greater Awareness
Sam Waide, Chief Executive of the RSA, expressed deep concern over the findings, noting the heightened vulnerability of motorcyclists on the roads. “So far this year, we have tragically seen 15 motorcyclist deaths. The lack of a protective cabin combined with possible high-speed means that motorbikes will always be a particularly vulnerable mode of transport,” Waide stated.
He urged motorcyclists to reduce their risk by undergoing professional training, wearing appropriate protective gear, and ensuring their motorcycles are well-maintained. Waide also called on drivers of other vehicles to be more aware of motorcyclists, especially in blind spots, when turning, overtaking, and at junctions.
Enhancing Road Safety
When asked for suggestions on improving road safety for motorcyclists, the most common response was increased awareness training for other road users. The survey also found that while two in three motorcyclists regularly check their motorcycle’s external components, such as tires and lights, other maintenance checks, like engine oil and coolant levels, are performed less frequently.
Motorcyclists are encouraged to participate in the BikeSafe program, co-funded by An Garda Síochána and the RSA, to enhance their safety skills. More information and guidance on motorcycle safety can be found on the RSA’s website.
