Easy Rider… thanks to new motorcycle safety strategy
A set of motorcycle safety initiatives aimed at novice riders is the latest move announced by Transport Minister Rachel Nolan today to help curb the state's rising motorcycle road death toll.
(Media-Newswire.com) - A set of motorcycle safety initiatives aimed at novice riders is the latest move announced by Transport Minister Rachel Nolan today to help curb the state’s rising motorcycle road death toll.
“These initiatives are a further part of the actions identified in the Queensland Motorcycle Safety Strategy 2009-2012 launched earlier this year,” Ms Nolan said.
“The number of motorcycle rider deaths has increased over the last decade with motorcyclists representing about 22 per cent of the 2008 Queensland road toll. We’re introducing these new initiatives to make it safer for both bike riders and everyone on the road.”
The new initiatives include a Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme ( LAM Scheme ) permitting RE class licence holders to only ride motorcycles suitable for their level of riding ability and experience.
The LAM Scheme moves away from applying restrictions based on a 250mL engine capacity, to applying restrictions based on the overall performance and power-to-weight ratio of a motorcycle.
Ms Nolan said the scheme aimed to make novice riders safer road users.
“This is about giving motorcyclists what they need to become better and safer riders,” she said.
Another key safety initiative prohibits class RE and R learner riders from carrying pillion passengers ( including their supervisor ) when learning to ride a motorcycle on the road.
“Carrying a pillion passenger requires more advanced riding skills, as a passenger impacts on the bike’s balance and stability,” Ms Nolan said.
“This new restriction will allow learner riders to concentrate on developing basic on-road riding skills.”
A learner will still be required to be supervised by an appropriate licensed person when learning to ride a motorcycle.
If the motorcycle has a sidecar, the supervisor may be safely seated in the sidecar.
Alternatively the learner may ride under direction of a supervisor following at a safe distance in another motorcycle or vehicle.
The third initiative requires provisional P1 and P2 licence holders to display P plates on the rear of the bike or moped to clearly identify themselves to other road users.
Motorcycle riding is growing in popularity with over 150,000 motorcycles registered in the state.
Under the strategy, motorcycle riders are also encouraged to protect themselves by wearing the correct safety gear to reduce the chances of severe injuries if they are involved in a crash.
These three key changes will be enforced from 1 July 2009 and failure to comply with the new rules may result in fines and demerit points.
“The new laws may sound tough, but they’re vital steps in improving safety for motorcycle riders,” Ms Nolan said.
“Already this year, 39 motorcycle riders have lost their lives on our roads.
“This is all about keeping motorcycle riders safe so they can continue to enjoy riding for life.”
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