August 11, 2015
The RACQ has expressed concerns over Queensland’s mounting road toll and the number of motorbike riders dying on the roads.
RACQ spokesman Steve Spalding said motorcyclists were over-represented in the current road toll.
“The year-to-date figures show 145 people have died on Queensland roads, that’s up by more than 15 on the same time last year,” Mr Spalding said.
“It’s very concerning just how many of these fatalities are motorcyclists.
“We know about 36 of these deaths are motorbike riders or their passengers, with the number some 44 per cent higher than this time last year.”
Mr Spalding said it was the time all road users took more responsibility for their actions.
“Next week is Queensland Road Safety Week and we want everyone to take stock of their skills,” he said.
“Whether it’s inattention on the part of a rider or a driver, or simply riding too fast for the conditions, a motorcyclist is highly vulnerable to serious injury or worse.
“Unfortunately inexperienced motorcyclists can over-estimate their level of riding ability.”
Mr Spalding said a defensive approach to riding was essential and encouraged motorcycle riders to brush up on their skills.
“Riders need to leave a margin for error and expect the unexpected,” he said.
