the driver's handbook

30
R O A d S A f E t y
The Driver’s Handbook
Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists, including scooter riders, are over-represented in
road trauma. They are nearly 30 times more likely to be killed or
seriously injured than other vehicle drivers for the same distance
travelled. Each year in South Australia, motorcycle rider fatalities
make up around 19% of all vehicle operator fatalities and 12% of
all road user fatalities.
Because motorcycle riders are less protected than car drivers,
they have a greater chance of being killed or injured in a crash.
The law requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets and they should
also wear protective clothing, particularly with bright colours to
make them more easily seen. Riding with headlights switched on
can also improve motorcyclists’ safety. Riders who use daytime
running lights increase the chances of other road users seeing the
motorcycles approaching.
Drivers can help make roads safer for motorcyclists, in much the
same way as they do for cyclists, by always checking what is
in front of their vehicle, behind it and to each side. Always leave
plenty of room if overtaking a motorcyclist.
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