New data highlights confronting motorcycle safety habits
New data from a survey of almost 1,000 motorcyclists has highlighted concerning attitudes toward speeding and protective gear, prompting a safety reminder from the Victorian Government.
Findings from an annual 2021 Motorcycle Safety Monitor Report by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) shows an increase in respondents admitting to exceeding the speed limit in a 60km/h zone (41 per cent), while 45 per cent confess to exceeding the limit in a 100km/h speed zone.
When it comes to protective riding gear, nearly all active riders wear a helmet ‘all the time’ (96 per cent). However, the report revealed that just over half (55 per cent) of respondents are wearing proper motorcycle riding pants every ride, while the wearing of boots on every ride has declined (76 per cent in 2020 vs 68 per cent in 2021).
TAC research shows contusions, abrasions and lacerations are the second-most common type of injury sustained from on-road motorcycle crashes in Victoria, behind fractured limbs. Over the last five years, on average, the TAC has received around 2,500 motorcyclist claims per year, equating to around $115 million annually in compensation and medical bills.
The findings come as Victorian motorcycle riders share confronting stories of when protective gear has saved their lives, as part of a new campaign urging their fellow riders to gear up every time they hit the road.
The Victorian Government and TAC have launched ‘The Gear Box’, which tells the story of five motorcycle riders who have experienced road trauma that would have been worse, if not for their safety gear.
ALL THE GEAR. ALL THE TIME.
It's important to wear your protective motorcycle clothing for every ride, no matter what the weather is or how long the ride is. Abrasion-resistant materials help riders avoid cuts, gravel rash and friction burns from contact with the road. Protecting your skin can also reduce possible medical complications from infections.
Your gear is an investment in your own skin that can stop you from being shredded by bitumen. Know what to look for in gear and buy the safest you can afford. Safety gear for street riding includes a helmet (a legal requirement in Australia), a jacket with armour, pants with armour, boots and gloves. A full-face helmet gives the best protection.
