The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) is celebrating success after its lobbying efforts led to motorcycling being specifically recognised in a new government consultation on self-driving cars. The consultation on Autonomous Vehicle (AV) rules covers the so-called ‘Statement of Safety Principles’ (SoSP) enshrined in the 2024 Autonomous Vehicles Act.
This will form part of the underlying law on the development of AVs and will guide the Secretary of State for Transport’s decisions on whether an automated vehicle can be used on British roads. It will also inform ongoing monitoring of authorised vehicles.
The aim of the new rules, according to the government, is to ensure that computer-controlled cars have “a level of safety equivalent to at least that of careful and competent human drivers”. The principles cover five broad themes: vehicle control; hazard anticipation, perception and reaction; obeying traffic rules; interaction with other road users; and adaptability to road conditions. A tall order for the artificial intelligence boffins perhaps – but the bare minimum that should be expected. The NMC has ensured that bikes will be included in this specification too.
NMC executive director Craig Carey-Clinch said: “We are very pleased that work on the SoSP is progressing with motorcycling in mind. Getting to this point has involved considerable background work on a very technical topic. Getting the SoSP right is absolutely crucial for the safety of motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users, and the consultation is an opportunity to ensure that motorcycle awareness and safety are fully embedded in the thinking of those involved in developing AVs and the technology that powers them.
“This is also another example of how partnership, both in the UK and internationally, can bring positive results, particularly in areas such as this, where policy surrounding the future of transport has such a significant impact on those who ride.”
NMC’s ‘Ride Right’ Initiative for green lane bikers
The NMC has also launched a new campaign to promote on- and off-road riding in the UK – while encouraging better behaviour from the minority of anti-social riders who ride illegally off-road on footpaths, bridleways, and common land, using motorcycles and illicit e-bikes.
The new Ride Right initiative aims to promote legal riding on green lanes/unsealed roads, as well as supporting off-road two-wheeled sports. The campaign is built around four clear principles that every rider can adopt, whether they’re exploring green roads on a sunny weekend or competing at a club enduro. The four themes are: Ride Right – use only legal public roads, follow signage, and know your responsibilities before you ride. Right Place – access practice tracks and private land only with landowner permission or at officially organised events. Right Approach – protect the landscape, follow the Countryside Code, and help keep routes open for future riders. And Right Attitude – share the countryside courteously with walkers, cyclists, horse riders, residents, and those who work the land.
NMC member organisation Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF) champions this user friendly approach. CEO Graeme Collins said: “Although a minority of individuals may also behave anti-socially in other areas of their lives, many others will be genuinely misinformed and inadvertently ride where they shouldn’t. The TRF’s Green Road Map (www.trf.org.uk/conservation/green-road-map) addresses this issue and shows people where they can ride on unsealed public highways.
“TRF membership is great value for money and unlocks access to a community of riders with knowledge of the best places to ride and explore the countryside in a responsible way.”
Collins added: “Feedback from our members reveals they are as frustrated and angry about anti-social behaviour as general members of the public in local communities.”