Riders 30 times more likely to be killed

MAC Chief Executive Officer, Jerome Maguire, said, the warm weather during the coming months results in more and more motorcycle owners taking to the roads.

“Motorcyclists have minimal protection making them vulnerable to injury if they’re involved in a crash. In fact on a per kilometre travelled basis, a motorcyclist is 30 times more likely to be killed on South Australian roads than a vehicle occupant.

“Riders are often reluctant to wear protective gear in warmer weather because they think it’s uncomfortable – but it’s not as uncomfortable as skin grafts or being trapped in a hospital bed when you could be out riding”

“Experts have told us that protective clothing is fundamentally important in shielding your body. Jackets, gloves, pants and boots designed for motorcycling can reduce severe soft tissue injuries.

“Impact protectors worn over the shoulders, elbows, hips and knees can also reduce the risk of fractures and joint damage.

“Riders need to assume they haven’t been seen by drivers. They need to be ready to stop or take other evasive action. Research has shown light coloured helmets and jackets increase the visibility of a motorcyclists to other road users.

“On a motorcycle, one small moment of thrill-seeking, or loss of concentration, can result in serious injuries that can lead to a lifetime of pain and disability.

“Motorcycling can be a very enjoyable way to get around, but as anyone who rides a motorcycle will tell you, they are not playthings.

“It’s important that drivers play their part too. We know intersections are high risk locations for motorcyclists, so drivers need to take extra and look-out for them,” Mr Maguire said.

In 2011 there were 222 Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance claims from motorcyclists, costing approximately $40 million.

Watch the motorcycle crash that changed Jason’s life http://youtu.be/oFXQ226Ofpk.

Motorcyclist fatalities and casualties 2002 to 2011.

A casualty is a fatality, serious injury or minor injury.

Download media release