New safety hub aims to help young motorcyclists to stay safe

Figures reveal that 339 16-24 year olds were killed or injured on the Scotland’s roads while on their motorcycles between 2018– 2021, with 91 per cent of those male.

Nationally, motorcyclists aged between 16 and 24 year old are twice as likely to be killed or injured than their 40–49-year-old counterparts per capita, with 4657 motorcyclists aged 16-24 injured or killed on Britain’s roads in 2021, compared to 1,931 40-49 year olds. The number of motorcycle riders is also rising, with CBT completions 22% higher than in 2019.

Across the country, between 34% and 42% of young motorcyclists harmed between 2014 and 2018 were involved in collisions at T-junctions, with eight to 10 per cent being at crossroads. Around 80 per cent of youngsters harmed were involved with collisions where there were two vehicles, the majority of those with a car.

RoSPA’s Novice Rider Hub features a wealth of information to help young people skill up and become a safer motorcycle rider, including the latest safety and style advice on motorcycle clothing and protective gear like helmets; a breakdown of all the different types of motorcycles, including engine sizes and the appropriate licences; essential riding tips and tricks on how to be safe on the road; advice on how to keep your bike in good condition and roadworthy; engaging driver-safety videos and infographics; the motorcycle safety advice everyone needs to know.

David Walker, Head of Road Safety at RoSPA, said: “When you’re a young adult and keen to get out and about, having your own transport is exciting and liberating. But we know that youngsters are at the most risk of injury or death on the road, with 16-24 year olds twice as likely to be killed or seriously injured when riding their motorcycle.

“Our Novice Rider Hub is a one-stop-shop for everything a young rider needs to know if they own a motorcycle and equips them with the tools ready to ride safely and confidently.

"We would encourage all parents of young adults who ride a motorcycle, to check it out and encourage their child to do the same – knowledge saves lives.”