From 28 March, the Police will carry out inspections focusing on motorcyclists, ensuring that they are properly equipped and their vehicles meet safety standards, as part of broader efforts to improve road safety following the winter break.
The campaign will specifically target the verification of key aspects related to motorcycling, such as protective gear, the overall technical condition of vehicles, and the necessary documentation required for riding. These checks are designed to help reduce the risk of accidents as motorcyclists return to the roads after a long period of inactivity during the winter months.
The winter break, marked by poor weather conditions, often leads to a decrease in motorcycle usage, leaving many riders out of practice. For a large number of motorcyclists, riding is often a seasonal activity, typically enjoyed during sunny days or on weekends. As a result, the lack of regular practice increases the likelihood of road safety risks when riders return to the roads in spring.
Studies have shown that this disruption in practice contributes to a heightened risk of accidents for those who have not been riding regularly. Experts stress the importance of taking the necessary precautions before returning to motorcycling after a long hiatus, advising riders to carefully check their equipment and refresh their riding skills.
Motorcyclists are some of the most vulnerable road users. In the event of an accident, motorcyclists face a much higher risk of injury compared to drivers of cars. Unlike car occupants, motorcyclists are not protected by a surrounding bodywork and can easily be thrown from their bikes in a crash. Additionally, motorcyclists present a small profile to other road users, which makes them harder to see, especially when in the blind spots of larger vehicles such as cars, trucks, or buses.
Experts emphasise the need for motorcyclists to adopt a defensive and cautious riding approach, especially at the beginning of the season but also throughout the year. Increased vigilance from all other road users is equally important, particularly in the early weeks of the motorcycle season when the risk of accidents is at its highest.
Police advice for motorcyclist safety can be found here.
