Police safety warning as two motorcyclists die in less than 24 hours

POLICE yesterday issued a safety warning to motorcyclists after two bikers died within less than 24 hours on Scotland’s roads.

A 44-year-old man was killed after his red Suzuki GSR 750 collided with two cars on the A85 Perth-to-Crieff road near Methven at 10.30am yesterday.

That followed the death of the rider of a Honda motorcycle on the A915 Upper Largo to Largoward road in Fife in a crash with a Volkswagen Golf shortly after 9pm on Friday.

Chief Inspector Fraser of Police Scotland’s operational support division said: ‘The biking season is well under way and it’s a popular time for both experienced riders and those returning to a motorbike after some time to get out and explore the country.

‘We want to encourage safer, considerate biking behaviour among riders, particularly during summer. Statistics unfortunately show most motorcycle casualties occur during the day and in good weather and with more motorcyclists getting their bikes out at the start of summer, it’s important to take it easy in all conditions.

‘Please enjoy being on your bike, but more importantly, concentrate on your riding. Be aware that most serious and fatal crashes happen on rural roads, at corners, while overtaking or at junctions. Make sure you slow down to a speed which enables you to react effectively, avoiding the chances of being involved in a crash.’

Motorbikes account for only 1 per cent of road traffic, but 12 per cent of road deaths.

The latest figures show male bikers account for 90 per cent of all motorcycle casualties, and almost a third are aged 40 to 49.