Motorcycle riders: 30 times more likely to be killed on local roads

Police launched Queensland Road Safety Week outside the Sunshine Coast University Hospital on Monday 21 August.

Sunshine Coast District Officer Superintendent Craig Hawkins launched Queensland Road Safety Week (QRSW) outside the Sunshine Coast University Hospital on Monday 21 August.

Police were supported by external agencies including the Department of Transport and Main Roads, the Queensland Ambulance Service, Crime Stoppers, Sunshine Coast Council and a representative from Sunshine Coast University Hospital General Surgery Senior Medical Doctor Scott Cooper.

Superintendent Hawkins emphasised the importance of road safety and in particular, motorcycle safety.

“Motorcycle riders are 30 times more likely to be killed on Queensland roads as opposed to general road users,” Superintendent Hawkins said.

“I urge all motorists to be aware when it comes to riders, by actively looking for riders and checking surroundings.

“This includes blind spots, indicating before changing lanes, obeying the road rules and being extra careful during wet weather.”

Motorcycle riders are one of the most vulnerable road users as they have less protection than motorists are more likely to injured if there is a crash.

Police are conducting patrols around the district targeting the Fatal Five: speeding, drink/drug driving, seatbelts, fatigue and driver distraction.