More than one in 10 motorcyclists on Ireland’s roads were involved in a collision during a two-year period, according to a new report from the Road Safety Authority (RSA).
The National Survey of Motorcyclists consulted 1,200 riders during the summer of 2023 with 11 per cent reporting having a road collision during the last two years and 71 per cent reporting a near miss. Both incidences were significantly higher among riders under the age of 35 years.
Of those that had a collision, around half reported injuries, with one in three reporting serious injuries.
The two most common reasons for road collisions were another vehicle coming from a side road pulling into their path and another vehicle colliding with the rear or side of their motorcycle.
In terms of unsafe riding behaviour, 86 per cent of motorcyclists admitted to filtering through stationary or slow-moving vehicles at least occasionally. While 42 per cent of riders admitted exceeding the speed limit on motorways and rural roads at least occasionally.
“So far this year, we have tragically seen 15 motorcyclist deaths,” said Sam Waide, Chief Executive, of RSA.
“The lack of a protective cabin combined with possible high-speed means that motorbikes will always be a particularly vulnerable mode of transport. However, motorcyclists can greatly reduce risk by taking some simple precautions such as professional training, wearing the proper personal protective equipment and ensuring that your motorcycle is properly maintained.
“Drivers of other vehicles need to be aware of motorcyclists, particularly in their blind spots, when turning, overtaking and at junctions. All road users need to look out for each other and share the road safely. Give space to others, particularly vulnerable road users – motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians on all journeys.”
