A survey of 600 riders by the road safety charity IAM Roadsmart, reveals that a third of motorcyclists have been struck by litter, including lit cigarette butts, thrown out of car windows in the past year. And riders even report being deliberately sprayed with windscreen washers when riding behind cars.
The survey also found that four out of five riders have had a car pull out on them after failing to look properly at a junction. And there were other worrying results, including more than half of drivers failing to check mirrors when overtaking, a third opening doors into traffic without checking, and others using hand-held mobile phones while driving.
In support the National Motorcyclists Council has joined IAM Roadsmart in asking for government action on the findings, including better enforcement and improved driver training.
IAM RoadSmart policy and standards director Nicholas Lyes said: “Hurling litter and cigarette butts at motorcyclists is shocking and completely reckless. Taking umbrage just because bikers are able to get ahead is at best petty, and at worst downright dangerous.
“Equally, motorcyclists should ride responsibly, but it’s important to keep in mind that bikers are some of the most vulnerable on the road and will almost always come off worse in the event of a collision.
“Deaths and serious injuries remain a real concern for motorcyclists, but a little courtesy and additional checks go a long way to improving safety.”
NMC executive director Craig Carey-Clinch added: “The lack of concern and awareness that many drivers have for motorcyclists remains an urgent issue for the UK’s most vulnerable road user group. It’s clear that the forthcoming Government Road Safety Strategy needs to focus on driver education and enforcement when it comes to behaviour towards those on two wheels. Drivers were also polled as part of this survey, and around a third reported risky behaviours by some riders, illustrating the need for proper support for post-test rider skills training, plus other initiatives to positively encourage rider skills development as part of the Road Safety Strategy.”