Road Safety - Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists are at greater risk of collisions than other road users. Particularly those collisions categorised as killed and seriously injured (KSI). In the period 2010-2014 motorcycles made up on average 6 per cent of the traffic in the London Borough of Camden. However, motorcycle casualties made up 19 per cent of all those killed or seriously injured on Camden’s roads.

Most collisions involving motorcyclists were either at a T-junction or crossroads, and often involved motor vehicles turning right, across the path of the motorcyclists who were going straight ahead. 

Reducing collisions is a top priority for Camden and we take every opportunity to improve road safety where possible. In addition, we provide here some safety tips and advice for riders and drivers alike to contribute to a safer environment.

Are you aged 16 or over and do you ride a motorcycle (or scooter) in the London Borough of Camden?

If so, please help us to learn more about motorcyclists in Camden by filling in this short survey. The information that you provide may be used to inform Camden’s road safety programme.

The best riders never stop learning. Become the best rider you could be by taking part in greater skills development. The aim is to help residents of Camden to improve their safety on the roads and increase their confidence. Below are the new courses with links for further information.

The courses on offer are free to our residents, subject to availability. To apply for your free Camden voucher code, please email: motorcycle.training@camden.gov.uk. 

Preparing for your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) for new, young riders:  

• This short, free online course aimed at new and young riders, which includes vital information on riding theory and key sections of The Highway Code. If you want to learn to ride a motorcycle, or you are renewing your Compulsory Basic Training, it will help you feel more prepared on the day.

Beyond CBT: Skills for Delivery Riders:

Are you a new delivery rider looking to navigate our busy city streets, or an experienced one seeking to improve your skills? 

• This free one-day course for new and experienced riders which explains more about the Highway Code, how to secure and ride with a load, plan routes, make safe deliveries and do routine maintenance motorcycle checks.

1-2-1 Motorcycle Skills sessions for Commuters, riders of low-powered motorcycles / scooters: 

• This course is a free tailor-made, two-hour session for commuters and riders of lower capacity motorcycles/ scooters. Sessions are delivered on a one-to-one basis with a qualified instructor.

BikeSafe-London for Experienced riders, higher-powered bikes 

• BikeSafe-London Rider Skills Day is a practical one day workshop of on-road rides with experienced police riders and an interactive presentation with the team. You will receive essential tips to make your riding more skilled, safe and enjoyable. 

For more information on the above courses, please visit Transport for London

If you have questions on any of the courses, please contact the TfL Team: bikesafelondon@tfl.gov.uk

There are number of training courses offered by other organisations available to suit different abilities. Each is designed to make you a better and safer rider.

• Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency: Enhanced Rider Scheme 

This scheme assesses your motorcycle riding skills and provides training to help you improve. Leads to a ‘DVSA certificate of competence’.

• IAM RoadSmart: Rider Assessment

This course provides an evaluation of your riding skills, helping you to become a more confident and safer rider. 

• IAM RoadSmart: Advanced Rider Course 

This is an advanced motorcycling course to improve your confidence and skills. Leads to the IAM advanced test.

• Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents ( RoSPA): Advanced Motorcycle Training 

Training aims to equip riders with the knowledge and skill to ride safely and effectively.  Leads to the RoSPA advanced test. 

The Department for Transport (DfT) has the following advice for motorcyclists as part of its THINK! campaign:

Riding defensively makes you less vulnerable. Make sure you:

• anticipate the actions of others

• are alert and observant

• can slow down and stop if the unexpected happens

• position yourself in the safest and best place to maximise your visibility of potential hazards

• take a 'lifesaver' glance over your shoulder before carrying out manoeuvres, so you know where others are and what they’re doing

Wear the right gear

Fall off your bike and tarmac will shred through your jeans in seconds. Wearing the right gear is just as important to your safety as servicing your motorcycle and knowing how to ride it. 

• wear bright or florescent gear during the day and reflective gear at night

• bikers must wear a protective jacket, gloves, boots and trousers

See the ‘Essential guide to protective gear for bikers’.

Choosing the right helmet could help save your life 

The SHARP rating system helps you understand how much protection a helmet offers in a crash.

Are you aged 16 or over and do you ride a motorcycle (or scooter) in the London Borough of Camden?

If so, please help us to learn more about motorcyclists in Camden by filling in this short survey. The information that you provide may be used to inform Camden’s road safety programme.
 

THINK! advice for drivers
THINK! take longer to look for bikes:

Look carefully for motorbikes when you pull out at a junction. If you're approaching a junction, look out for motorcyclists pulling out too. 

Keep your distance

• Driving too close can intimidate a less experienced motorcyclist.

Check for bikes when changing lanes

• A motorcyclist may be in the space you want to move into, or moving into it fast. Remember your blind spot.

Check for bikes when turning

• Parked cars or large vehicles can obstruct your view of a motorcyclist.

Motorcyclists might pass you on either side

• Double-check for motorcyclists, whether you're turning left or right.

Park safely

• Check for motorcyclists before opening your car door - and ensure that your passengers do the same. When you pull away, remember to look specifically for motorcyclists as they can accelerate faster than cars.

Are you aged 16 or over and do you ride a motorcycle (or scooter) in the London Borough of Camden?

If so, please help us to learn more about motorcyclists in Camden by filling in this short survey. The information that you provide may be used to inform Camden’s road safety programme.

Find out more about road safety and motorcycling please visit:

• Transport for London
• Department for Transport THINK! campaign
• BikeSafe

Are you aged 16 or over and do you ride a motorcycle (or scooter) in the London Borough of Camden?

If so, please help us to learn more about motorcyclists in Camden by filling in this short survey. The information that you provide may be used to inform Camden’s road safety programme.