There are few ways to use our roads that are more enjoyable or give you a better sense of freedom than on a motorcycle. Motorbikes are affordable to run and repair and they have a great range of other benefits.
Unfortunately though, with no extra protection around them, motorcycle riders are more prone to serious injuries after a crash. Stacks Goudkamp are committed to safer roads and protection for everyone, which is why we have compiled some tips, strategies, laws and campaigns that can help to improve the situation for motorcyclists.
Protective Equipment
The right protective equipment is essential in motorbike road safety. Some important items to remember include:
- Helmet – wearing a helmet is both motorcycling best practice and the law. Approved protective helmets will meet with relevant Australian/ New Zealand standards. (AS/NZS 1698 or UNECE22.05.)
- Visor – your helmet visor should be clear, shatterproof and scratch-free.
- Back protector – these are designed to protect your spine in crash situation.
- Jacket and Pants – abrasion and tear resistant clothing should cover your arms, legs and body and be secured at the wrists and ankles.
- Gloves and Boots – gloves should be reinforced in the palm and fastened with a zip or Velcro. Boots should be leather, overlap with your pants and fastened with a zip or Velcro.
Insights: According to the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, motorcyclists with inappropriate footwear have almost double the chance of sustaining a lower leg-open wound in a crash situation.
Riding Strategies and Advice
When you’re on the roads, remember to:
- Maintain a 3 second gap to respond to every circumstance
- Constantly scan your surroundings, including the distance, road conditions, your instruments and mirrors, to get a greater insight into your environment
- Brake lightly when approaching potential hazards, to prepare yourself, your motorcycle and surrounding vehicles
When you’re on the roads, remember to:
- The tread and pressure of your tyres
- The effectiveness of lights, indicators and horns
- The strength of your suspension
- The level of your engine, coolant and brake fluids
Laws and Campaigns
With motorcycle riders accounting for around 21 per cent of road fatalities, protecting them is everyone’s responsibility. Here are a few examples of how the law and campaigns aim to protect bike riders.
Lane Filtering in New South Wales
Lane filtering occurs when a motorcyclist moves alongside other vehicles on the road. In New South Wales, strict road filtering laws means motorcyclists can only do this at 30km/hr or less.
There are also areas where it is illegal to lane filter, such as in school zones or next to kerbs.
Lane filtering regulations also provide information for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists in order to promote safer sharing of the road.
Ride to Live
