Tag: motorcycling

Plea to road users as police focus on motorcycle safety

Two motorcyclists have died this month and five seriously injured in collisions over the Easter weekend. The latest figures are being highlighted as a reminder to all road users to keep themselves and others safe while travelling on Scotland’s roads.

Road policing officers are focusing on their annual motorcycle campaign over the spring and summer months when riders tend to make use of the better weather.

Fellow biker and deputy head of road policing, Superintendent Stewart Mackie, said: “We speak to bikers and other road users all year round but as the better weather arrives, there is a real focus on motorbike safety and educating all drivers.

“Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than other road users. My plea to other riders is a straightforward one – get home safe.

“I have bitter experience of attending fatal collisions over the years and we must all be cautious on bends, especially left hand bends and think twice before every single overtake.

“I understand the pleasure of being on a bike and exploring Scotland but there’s nothing more important than returning home to your loved ones safe and well.

“Every road user needs to play their part.”

More than 85 per cent of all motorcycle collisions happen in rural areas, during the daytime and in good weather. Over 500 motorcyclists are seriously injured or killed across the country each year.

From one biker to another: a message to motorcyclists and other road users

Ahead of the good weather forecast this weekend and upcoming motorcycle safety campaign, biker and deputy head of road policing Stewart Mackie has a message for road users:

Superintendent Stewart Mackie, deputy head of road policing, said: “Being a biker myself, I know the enjoyment that is gained from being out and about on your bike.

“Scotland has some of the best biking roads in the world. However my colleagues and our road safety partners are working towards Scotland also having the best road safety performance in the world by 2030. We all need to play our part.

“We’ll launch our motorcycle safety campaign next month. This will see education, engagement and enforcement take place across Scotland throughout the spring and summer months. But I wanted to reach out to you now.

“As the good weather comes along, more motorcyclists are taking to the roads to make the most of their weekends. I would urge all bikers to think of the personal consequences of taking risks when biking.


“Equally I would remind all road users that the safety of bikers and other vulnerable road user groups depends on each and every one of us.

“Around 90% of all motorcycle casualties are male and almost a third of those killed are aged 40 – 49 years. There has been a marked recent increase in motorcycle ownership and use, particularly those returning to biking after many years.

“Motorcycle riders will always be more vulnerable on the roads than car drivers. More than 85% of all motorcycle casualties happen in rural areas, during the daytime and in good weather.

“Motorcycling is an excellent way to explore the country. I want riders to enjoy their free time out and about, just as I will be doing. More importantly, I want us all to get home safe.”