Police drive to keep motorcyclists safe

MOTORCYCLisTs are being targeted in a new drive to keep them safer on Derbyshire’s roads.

Nationally, motorcycling accounts for just 0.3% of the total vehicle miles travelled per year on the uK’s roads.

However, 17% of collisions have resulted in riders getting killed or seriously injured.

A recent report stated that the majority of motorcyclists (80%) are killed either through overtaking/lane changes, loss of control or from turning/crossing at junctions.

Derbyshire, with its exciting roads and locations, is particularly alluring for motorcyclists and police say some visitors ride inappropriately - presenting a very real danger to them and other road users.

Now a new national enforcement campaign, called #2wheeloperation, has been launched to help protect riders as they get back out on the roads over the spring and summer.

Officers from the county’s Roads Policing unit, supported by the Casualty Reduction Enforcement support Team and Derbyshire’s upright team, are currently targeting riders at accident hotspots to educate them about the dangers. They will also be on the lookout for poor driving, document offences and vehicle roadworthiness.

inspector Greg Hunt, who leads the roads policing team, said: “Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable groups of road users and are at a higher risk of injury and collision, which often results in riders suffering more serious injuries and can often lead to loss of life.

“Obviously, we want people to enjoy the fantastic roads that Derbyshire offers, but we want them to do so in a safe and responsible manner.”