October Motorbike Deaths Highest in 20 Years

02 Nov 2010

MEDIA RELEASE: 2 November 2010

The highest month for motorcycle deaths in 20 years has just concluded with eleven killed in October, Transport Accident Commission (TAC) statistics released today show.

Ten riders killed were male, with six riders and one pillion passenger aged over 40.

The TAC statistics show that rider error may have caused six of the 11 fatalities.

Six motorcyclists were killed in metropolitan Melbourne, and four were killed in 50 or 60 km/h speed zones.

The TAC's Road Safety and Marketing Senior Manager, John Thompson, said the statistics prove that there are some motorcyclists who continue to put themselves and other road users at risk.

"There are some motorcyclists who fail to understand how vulnerable they are, and when travelling at speed in a collision they will always come off second best, regardless of who is at fault," Mr Thompson said.

"Similarly, car drivers need to be aware that motorcyclists are legitimate road users and they need to keep an eye out for them."

Road trauma costs the Victorian community more than 3.5 billion dollars each year, and motorcyclists represent 25 per cent of all TAC claims involving an overnight hospital stay.

Despite representing just three per cent of all registered road users motorcyclists account for 20 per cent of all TAC medical costs.

"Ultimately, the entire community carries the burden of motorcycle trauma and it is up to individual riders to reduce their risks."

The TAC's motorcycle safety campaign is in full swing with billboards, advertisements and education programs running throughout the peak-riding season.

"Wearing your protective clothing and riding with in your capabilities are the key things riders should remember," Mr Thompson.

"We urge every road user to make this month a safer month on our roads."

45 motorcyclists have been killed this year so far, and the current road toll stands at 258 compared to 238 this time last year.

In total, 37 people died in October, the highest number killed in one month since December 2007. Despite 40 years of seatbelt legislation, five of these were not restrained.

For further information please contact: Sarah Campbell on 0429 294 262.