Autumn, a dangerous time for moped riders

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) is warning young riders to take extra care at this time of year, with research showing that autumn sees the largest proportion of casualties involving teenage moped riders. 

Peter Rodger, IAM’s Chief Examiner said: “While autumn is the worst time for moped rider casualties, it doesn’t seem this is down to deterioration in weather conditions. Two-thirds of KSI (killed or seriously injured) incidents happen in daylight and when it is dry and fine.”

It is possible that the peak at this time is related to the fact that 16-year-olds may be going on to college, or finishing school and buying a moped to get to and from work. This means a rise in new and inexperienced riders out on the road in September. 57 per cent of those injured on small motorcycles are under the age of 18.

“Two-thirds of teenage moped casualties occur at or near a junction, and nearly all involve another vehicle. The case of the ‘driver looked – but – failed – to - see’ accident is all too common, but by making themselves more conspicuous to other road users, and by developing their riding through further training, teenage moped riders could greatly improve their chances on the roads.”  

The IAM offers the following tips on how to be more visible to other traffic:

Wear high-visibility gear. A solid colour, as opposed to broken up shapes makes you much more visible as a human

If filtering, ride in the middle of the available space- don’t hide next to traffic

If they’re not automatic, make sure you have your headlights on

Don’t follow too close to the vehicle in front - it hides you from other traffic

Ride two - thirds of the way into the lane - it’s where a driver would sit, so it’s where other drivers will look

To improve confidence on the roads, as well as help young riders to gain a greater sense of awareness as to where the threats come from, further training could prove incredibly valuable.

A new product aimed at increasing the confidence and experience of riders of scooters, mopeds and motorcycles under 125cc has this month (October) been introduced by the IAM. Road Rider Plus is available from Friday 1 October. The three hour module is aimed at riders who have gained their CBT, but haven’t yet got as far as their test.  Road Rider Plus will give a clear indication of skills and abilities, together with recommendations for any areas that require a little more attention and fine-tuning.

To book a Road Rider Plus session call 0845 126 8600 or click iam.org.uk/rrp