NSW police are appealing to all road users to maintain awareness and drive safely following the death of four motorbike riders in three days.
On Friday, a 45-year-old motorbike rider died after a crash with a cement truck at the intersection of Cowpasture Road and the Horsely Drive, Abbotsbury.
Also Friday, a motorcycle and a tabletop truck collided in Williamtown and the motorbike rider died at the scene.
On Saturday, a 59-year-old rider died after his motorbike collided with a Toyota Hilux in Fernbrook on the state’s north coast.
On Sunday, a motorcycle crashed into a rail guard at Howes Valley in the Hunter region and the rider died at the scene.
Assistant Commissioner John Hartley of the state’s Traffic & Highway Patrol Command said motorbike riders and other road users should be aware of their abilities, surroundings and responsibility toward each other.
"These recent deaths have highlighted the need for greater motorcycle awareness on our roads – for everyone. Those that are new to riding, or have returned to riding after some years need to be aware of their abilities," Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
"Motorcycle crashes can happen in good conditions with no other vehicles involved. Even experienced riders need time to react to changing situations on the road. Sometimes, you might be going too fast for the road conditions, even though you may be riding below the speed limit,” he said.
“It takes three-quarters of a second to make a decision to act once you see a hazard, and the same time again for the action to be effective," he said.
Assistant Commissioner Hartley warned that motorcycles are harder to see than other vehicles because they are smaller, blend easily into the background, can accelerate faster than other vehicles and it can be difficult to judge their approaching speed.
"Motorists need to be aware that with basic observation, many dangerous situations can be avoided,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
Tips for drivers to share the road with motorcyclists include:
- Remember to scan the road environment and watch for motorcycles, especially when you approach intersections.
- Cars have blind spots that can be large enough to obscure your view. Look over your shoulder before you make a move of any kind.
- Check your mirrors and blind spots often, and give motorcycles room in traffic.
- When you’re getting out of a parked car, check for motorcycles before you open the door.
- When you’re pulling out from the kerb, look especially for motorcycles. They have a narrower profile than cars and can quickly appear.
- Do the same during any manoeuvre. Motorcycles can turn up in the most unexpected places.
- Give motorcycles space. They may have to avoid an obstacle that might not matter to drivers, but could be a serious problem for them. "Sadly, 36 riders have lost their lives in crashes so far this year, compared to 35 deaths this time last year. Whilst the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command will continue to work with the NSW Centre for Road Safety to reduce motorcycle related fatalities, riders and other motorists need to take responsibility by riding safely and being aware of other vehicles on our roads," Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
Acting General Manager Centre for Road Safety Bernard Carlon said motorcycle riders are some of our most at risk road users.
“Motorcycle riders are less protected, so a crash, even at low speeds, can leave them with very serious or even fatal injuries,” Mr Carlon said.
“If you’re on a motorcycle, don’t let this ride be your last. Make the right decisions, manage risk and speed, stay alert, wear the right protective gear and Ride to Live.
“It’s also important to remember that motorcycle safety isn’t just up to riders – if you’re behind the wheel you also have a role to play. Check twice for riders, especially at intersections or when changing lanes.”
NSW Police
