POLICE are prioritising motorcycle safety following a concerning spike in rider deaths. There have been 35 motorcyclist fatalities this year, 75 per cent higher than the same time last year when 20 deaths were recorded. The figure is 56 per cent higher than then five-year average of 22.6 deaths. While cooler weather typically sees a decline in motorcycle activity, there were eight on-road rider fatalities recorded in May alone compared with none in May last year. It was the deadliest May for motorcyclists in 10 years. Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir, said it was extremely concerning road trauma involving motorcyclists on the roads had risen so significantly. “We typically see motorcycle riding decrease over the cooler months, but there have been no signs of this slowing down," he said. "In fact, May and June both have experienced large increases in rider deaths. “We’ve identified failing to give way, from both riders and drivers, and inappropriate speed as major contributing factors to this year’s motorcyclist fatalities. “We need all road users to play their part to help keep each other safe, particularly at this time of year with poor visibility and wet, slippery roads.” There have been five motorcyclist fatalities so far in June compared with three at the same time last June. Rider deaths on regional roads have risen significantly this year with 16 compared to five this time last year. Forty per cent (14) of total deceased riders were aged 18- 35 years and more than 90 per cent were male. Police have identified key factors contributing to the trauma including failing to give way (both riders and drivers) and inappropriate speed. With reduced visibility and wet, slippery roads at this time of year, police are particularly concerned about these factors leading to further injury and deaths. The State Highway Patrol Solo Unit continues to conduct on-road and off-road motorcycle operations across the state, focusing on both rider education and enforcement.
