- Minister for Road Safety and the TAC
- Minister for Roads
Victorian drivers and motorcycle riders are being reminded to look out for each other on the roads, with rider numbers set to increase over summer.
So far this year, 36 motorcycle riders have lost their lives Victorian roads, compared with 38 deaths for all of 2018 and 29 at the same time last year.
Minister for Roads and Minister for Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford joined Parliamentary Secretary for Police and Emergency Services Paul Edbrooke to urge drivers and riders to take extra care as we head into 'riding season'.
Motorcycle numbers traditionally increase from October to April and, with that, the risk of crashes involving riders. Over the past five financial years, 207 motorcyclists have died on Victorian roads, and 140 of those deaths have happened during the peak period between October and April.
In 2018, 1,364 people were injured in motorcycle crashes on Victorian roads, with 184 people spending more than two weeks in hospital with serious injuries - 109 of those during popular riding months.
The TAC has re-launched its Perfect Ride campaign aimed at Victorian motorcycle riders, urging them to take every precaution when using the roads.
The campaign addresses five key safety issues that recreational riders encounter and can contribute to a crash including speed, cornering, road position, road surfaces and foreign objects, and other road users. Victorians will see this campaign pasted across social media, radio, print and billboards.
For more information on motorcycle rider safety, the Perfect Ride campaign or the TAC's presence at MotoGP, visit spokes.com.au.
As stated by Minister for Roads and Minister for Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford
"Tragically, too many motorcycle riders are being killed and injured in Victoria, and the risk is heightened in warmer months with more riders getting out and enjoying the roads."
"We are asking every road user - whether you're on two wheels or four - to look out for each other and be extra vigilant as more riders hit the road."
As stated by Parliamentary Secretary for Police and Emergency Services Paul Edbrooke
"As a motorbike rider and a former first responder, I'm urging everyone to take care on the roads and if you're getting on your bike, make sure you're wearing the correct protective gear."
