Biking industry comes together to increase awareness of motorcyclists

Three of the biking industry's most influential organisations have added their support to the Motorcyclists Matter e-petition, which now has almost 40,000 signatures.

The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCI), British Motorcycle Federation (BMF) and Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) have publicly voiced their support for the motorcycle safety awareness campaign.

Launched by Bennetts, the petition aims to convince the government to help increase awareness of bikers on UK roads, by ensuring that bike-related questions are made compulsory in the driving test. Whilst motorcyclists account for only one per cent of road traffic they fall victim to almost 20 per cent of fatalities. The current system of random selection of questions means that some road users are able to pass their driving test without ever needing to consider motorcyclists.

Karen Cole, Director of Safety and Training for the Motorcycle Industry Association, commented: "This is a very simple and sensible change that will make a difference. Many road casualties could be avoided if drivers were more aware of motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users.  Even the addition of just one mandatory question, specifically about motorcycles, in the Drivers Theory Test will force drivers to ‘think bike' from a very early stage.  Encouraging considerate driving habits will benefit both drivers and riders."

BMF's Government Relations Executive Chris Hodder added: "Since inattentiveness by other road users causes the majority of motorcycle accidents, the BMF has consistently called for further initiatives to raise the awareness of all vulnerable road users. With over 1.3 million motorcycles on Britain's roads it's incredible that prospective drivers can currently pass the test without answering a single question relating to motorcyclists. We would encourage all our members to sign this petition."

Hannah Squirrell, Associate Director, Bennetts said: "We're delighted to have received support from the three main industry organisations. The campaign has all motorcyclists in mind and can only be beneficial to every rider and everyone associated with the industry."

Almost 40,000 people have already added their signatures to the petition. All two-wheeled road users are urged to add their support to the campaign to reach the target of 100,000 signatures.

To pledge your support visit bikerpetition.co.uk or epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/26272.