Motorcyclists account for 10% of all fatalities on our roads, despite the fact that motorcycles account for less than 2% of all licensed vehicles in the state.
A motorcyclist is three times more likely to be killed in Ireland than in other European countries and, in addition to the human and emotional toll of motorcycle collisions, the economic cost is also significant. In the four year period from 2004 to 2007 the cost of motorcycle collisions amounted to €656,000,805.
These are some of the findings contained in a new draft ‘National Motorcycle Safety Action Plan’ just published by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), which is designed to improve motorcycle safety in Ireland.
The RSA is seeking the views of the public on the proposals contained in the plan, which aim to save over 20 lives each year and cut motorcycle deaths by 57% by 2012.
Noel Brett, CEO of the RSA, said: "Motorcycling has many advantages over other forms of transport. A motorcycle is generally more environmentally friendly, time and fuel efficient and easier to park… however while it may sound obvious, motorcyclists really are vulnerable road users."
The Draft National Motorcycle Action Plan may be viewed and/or downloaded from the RSA website www.rsa.ie.
