Motorcycle safety 'would be boosted by improved road conditions'

Date: 14/7/2010

The new government should improve road conditions to enhance motorcyclists' safety, a new report has suggested.

More than 6,500 individuals took part in the Motor Cycle News survey and 36 per cent claimed motorists need to be made more aware of bikers.

And 11 per cent stated they would like to see regulations that allow motorbike riders to use bus lanes extended.

Steve Kenward, chief executive officer of the Motorcycle Industry Association, said the views of riders are important and better conditions will encourage more bikers onto the roads.

"As bikes can help to reduce congestion, reduce pollution and reduce journey times for all road users, improving road conditions can only be a positive step," he added.

Last month, Mayor Boris Johnson announced bikers will still be allowed to use bus lanes operated by Transport for London.

It followed an 18-month trial, which found 51 per cent of motorcyclists moved to bus lanes instead of continuing to ride on the outside of the carriageway.

Posted by Sarah Bailey