Motorcyclists account for 10 per cent of all fatalities on our roads, despite motorcycles accounting for less than two per cent of all licensed vehicles in the state. A motorcyclist is three times more likely to be killed in Ireland than in other European countries.
In addition to the human and emotional toll of motorcycle collisions, the economic cost is also significant. In the four year period 2004 to 2007 motorcycle collisions amounted to €656,000,805.
These are some of the findings contained in a new draft National Motorcycle Safety Action Plan published by the Road Safety Authority, which is designed to improve motorcycle safety in Ireland. The RSA is seeking the views of the public on the proposals contained in the plan, which aim to save over 20 lives each year and cut motorcycle deaths by 57 per cent by 2012.
“Motorcycling has many advantages over other forms of transport. A motorcycle is generally more environmentally friendly, time and fuel efficient, and easier to park.” says Noel Brett, Road Safety Authority’s CEO.
“However while it may sound obvious, motorcyclists really are vulnerable road users. In a crash they have less protection than in a car, and irrespective of who is at fault, the motorcyclist will more than likely suffer worst in a collision with another vehicle. The measures outlined in this document can address this vulnerability.”
The plan’s primary targets are: firstly, to reduce the number of motorcycle fatalities by 57 per cent (or better ) from a base of the 2004-2006 average of 46 per annum to 20 by 2012. Secondly, the RSA wants to to reduce the number of injuries by 25 per cent (or better ) by the year 2012. Its third target is to reduce the number of casualties occurring in built-up areas by 30 per cent (or better ) by the year 2012
The action plan also identifies 78 actions which are designed to improve the safety of motorcyclists by concentrating on measures to improve road design and maintenance; education and training; motorcycle equipment; enforcement; and evaluation - all of which are known to be key factors in influencing motorcycle casualty numbers and severity.
The consultative process has commenced and will finish on June 19. The public are invited to contribute by commenting on individual aspects of the action plan and/or making a formal submission.
Comments or submissions may also be e-mailed to [email protected] or posted to Research Unit, Road Safety Authority, Moy Valley Business Park, Primrose Hill, Ballina, Co Mayo. Mark the envelope “Motorcycle Action Plan”. The Draft National Motorcycle Action Plan may be viewed and/or downloaded from the RSA’s website www.rsa.ie
