GRIM motorbike fatality statistics and a local push to improve safety on the roads have been met with one of the strongest community responses to any local issue this year.
Western Australia has recorded its worst motorbike road toll to date this year, with 39 fatalities on our roads so far and a dangerous period looming ahead.
The Bunbury Mail published a local call for action including a proposed advanced motorcycle training program and the potential for regular re-testing for riders.
This comes after South West Traffic officer-in-charge Sergeant Craig Clarke revealed that many riders on local roads did not hold a licence, prompting police to target the road user category.
The Mail inbox has been flooded with responses from residents, with many arguing that it was often the motorists at fault and if bike riders had to be re-tested, drivers should too.
Acting road safety minister John Day launched Motorcycle Safety Week on Sunday, revealing that every one of the state’s 2014 motorbike fatalities was caused by human error.
Of the 39 deaths, 26 were found to be the fault of the motorbike rider, while 13 were caused by the driver of another vehicle.
Speed and reckless behaviour was a factor in 22 of the crashes, while carelessness and inattention accounted for seven and alcohol was a factor in four of the fatalities.
Mr Day said police were bracing themselves for what was traditionally the worst time of the year for motorcycle crashes.
“We know during the summer months riders love to get on their motorcycles,” he said.
“So we are again pleading with those riders and other drivers to look at these statistics, think about them and realise that your behaviour determines how safe our roads are.”
Mr Day also urged motorcycle riders to wear appropriate protective clothing during the warmer months.
The WA Motorcycle Riders Association will hold safety workshops and bike checks throughout the week.
