An analysis of motorcycle crashes this year paints a grim picture of motorist behaviour, revealing every one of the 39 fatalities was caused by human error.
Acting Road Safety Minister John Day said the tragedy faced by the 39 families involved was completely avoidable.
“We’re headed for one of the worst years for fatal crashes for some time, so to learn every one of those motorcycle crashes was avoidable is frustrating for the State Government, but no doubt heartbreaking for the families involved,” Mr Day said.
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.
· 39 motorcycle deaths so far this year · All fatal crashes caused by human error and avoidable · Speed a factor in 22 of the fatal crashes
- Acting Road Safety Minister John Day
Launching Motorcycle Safety Week, the Minister 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. 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,” he said.
Mr Day also urged motorcycle riders to wear appropriate protective clothing during the warmer months.
“What these statistics don’t show are the large number of horrendous crashes which are not fatal but leave the rider or sometimes their passenger with horrific injuries,” he said.
The WA Motorcycle Riders Association will hold safety workshops and bike checks throughout the week.
Fact File
- Motorcycle Safety Week runs from November 23 to 30
- It is hosted by the WA Motorcycle Riders Association
- For more information, visit http://www.mrawa.org
