Look at the motorcycle fatalities statistics, and the facts speak for themselves. Most fatal motorcycle crashes were caused by speeding, alcohol or drugs, rider inattention, illegal manoeuvres or rider inexperience. And you don't have to be a rocket scientist to work out that you have the power to do something to control each of these factors.
It's easy to improve your chances of survival on the roads by getting the facts about speeding, inattention, inexperience, fatigue, alcohol and drugs and illegal manoeuvres.
Ride over the speed limit, and you'll risk a whole lot more than a speeding fine and demerit points. Speed has caused more than a third of all motorcycle deaths in Queensland last year. It also contributed to many crashes where riders suffered serious injury. Also, speed increases the severity of crashes caused by other factors, such as drink driving and fatigue.
Face facts - slowing down improves your chances of survival on the road. So make sure you ride at a speed which suits the conditions and does not exceed the signed speed limit. For example, slow down if it is wet or foggy.
And remember, the more you speed, the longer it takes to stop. Be aware of your stopping distance in different conditions.
When your mind is elsewhere, you may not think quickly enough to make a life-saving decision. You need to concentrate one hundred per cent of the time.
Look out for hazards such as rubbish or animals on the road, road trains, parked cars which suddenly turn out into traffic or objects which block another driver or rider's view of you. And be prepared to change direction, brake or stop when you come across unexpected situations.
Take care that you're not distracted by:
Always stay alert. Concentrate and stop at red lights, maintain the correct lane position and take care by riding at the correct speed for the conditions.
Did you know there are five times as many licensed riders as there are registered motorcycles in Queensland? This means many motorcycle riders do not have regular riding experience, and with it, you're less likely to be equipped to handle dangerous situations and avoid crashes.
Inexperience is not just an issue for new motorcyclists, it also affects people who take up riding later in life, or after many years of not riding at all.
So if you're a new or returning rider, think about doing further training courses to help gain the practical riding skills and experience you need to stay safe on the road.
Riders who've had training are more likely to know how to brake and change direction safely to avoid a crash.
For more information on safe riding techniques, check out our section on riding tips.
Riding a motorcycle is more physically and mentally demanding than driving a car. So you need to be wide awake to what's happening on the road so you can concentrate properly, react quickly and safely, and make the right decisions.
If you're planning a trip, keep in mind the effects of fatigue on your ability to control your motorcycle. Make sure you never drive any longer than 10 hours in a day, and take a 15 minute break every two hours.
Be aware of signs that you may be tired, including:
Try these tips for reducing fatigue:
Everyone knows that alcohol and drugs affect your judgement, vision, attentiveness, coordination and reflexes. In 2007, alcohol or drugs were the major contributing factors in 23 per cent of fatal motorcycle crashes.
If you have had a drink and you are not over the legal limit you should:
Don't take risks with your life. If you're concerned about riding after a few drinks, arrange for a lift with someone you know who has not had any alcohol or other drugs, hire a taxi, use public transport or, where possible, stay where you are.
And remember, riding under the influence of illegal, prescription or even some over the counter drugs, such as cold or allergy tablets, can be just as dangerous. So take the same precautions that you'd take with alcohol.
And check with a pharmacist or doctor, or read the label on any medication you are taking so you know if it will affect your riding ability.
Be aware of any signs that your medication may be affecting you, including:
And remember, your riding ability can be affected if you mix some medicines with alcohol. So don't take the risk. Stay clear-headed and survive.
Queensland's road rules are there for good reason - to protect everyone who uses our roads. Anytime you break those rules, you put your life and others at risk. In 2007, 24 per cent of motorcycle fatalities were the result of riders performing illegal manoeuvres.
By sticking to the road rules, you'll increase your chances of survival, dramatically. So make sure you:
Be aware. Take care. Survive.
Last updated 13 May 2008
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© The State of Queensland (Department of Transport and Main Roads) 2009.
