There have been 19 motorcyclists killed on NSW roads since the start of the year prompting a safety call from police.
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Motorcycle awareness and compliance is in police sights after the state’s death toll rose to four more than this time last year.
“With over 214,000 motorcycles and scooters currently registered on NSW roads, there is an obvious need for motorists to be fully aware of those around them and for motorcyclists to be safe on our roads,” traffic and highway patrol commander Assistant Commissioner John Hartley said.
“We’re really serious about driving down the number of these tragic and often avoidable crashes, and riders and drivers alike need to share the road and have a role to play.”
Since 2013, motorcycle riders have been involved in 7774 crashes, which resulted in 150 deaths.
Assistant Commissioner Hartley said motorcyclists could improve their safety by choosing better helmets and riding gear, regularly maintaining their bikes and sticking to the road rules.
“Everyone on the road – including drivers and riders – need to remember to keep a three-second gap, scan the road ahead and around your vehicle and be aware that speed, alcohol and fatigue can all increase the risk of having a crash,” he said.
The police push for rider safety complements the recent Ride to Live campaign from Transport for NSW.
The advertisements and campaign signs remind motorcyclists to make the right decisions, manage risk, check speed and stay alert.
“If you’re behind the wheel – please – look out and check twice for motorcyclists,” Centre for Road Safety general manager Marg Prendergast said.
“They are less protected than you and come off second best in a crash.
“Riders, don’t let this ride be your last.”