Bike Safety for Bike Week in Margate

With the upcoming motorbike festival which starts next week in Margate on the KZN South Coast, KZN and in particular the KZN South Coast will see a large increase in the number of motorbikes on the road.

Motorbikes are, due to their smaller size, often not as easy to detect as other vehicles.

People riding on motorbikes do not have the same levels of protection from the vehicle,when compared to occupants of other vehicles.

Bikers/ Motorcyclists are also more exposed to the elements and are at greater risk of sustaining injuries if a crash occurs.

Considering this and with the expected increased biking activity on the roads, motorists and bikers are reminded of the following safety advice:

Motor bikers should:

Remember that your safety is of the utmost importance and all possible safety precautions need to be taken to protect yourselves.

Wear the appropriate and good quality safety gear at all times![ATGATT] This includes:

A helmet, which should preferably be a full-face helmet. Also make sure the chin strap is secured when driving, as if it is not, the helmet could simply fly off due to the forces involved in a crash.
Specialised protective clothing, jacket and pants
Reflective vest, this increases visibility to other road users
Riding boots
Gloves

The safety gear is designed to increase the users visibility to other road users and to protect against the elements. Also in the event of a crash or a fall the safety equipment provides abrasion protection and built in padding can provide protection from forces involved in a crash.

People riding motorbikes are reminded to be extremely cautious when riding and to:

Remember they are not as visible as they think they are to other road users , including pedestrians.
To always switch on the headlights of the bike.
To travel only at the posted speed limit and slower if needed, depending on the road conditions.
Plan their trips and take regular rest breaks

Bikers are asked to always carry identification with them and their families' contact details, so that emergency services have this easily available in the event of a crash.

Other motorists

Those driving cars and others vehicles are also asked to always be alert to bikers. Motorists are reminded that:

Motorbikes often appear quickly and may be traveling faster than you are.
Always indicate when turning, even if it is a lane change and you think you’re the only vehicle nearby.

If there has been a crash, particularly one involving a motorbike, where you stop to assist - consider the following:

Crash scenes are high risk areas with the greatest danger coming from other vehicles. It is of the utmost importance to warn approaching motorists of the crash.
Do not move the patient unless the danger of the patient staying on the road is greater than the risk of worsening injuries.
Do not remove the helmet from an injured rider.
Call emergency services and answer their questions about the crash or incident.

KZN Emergency Medical Services can be contacted during emergencies on 10177

Photo Credit: the severely damaged helmet of a young rider, who had been fatality
injured in a crash, the helmet had been found some distance from the man.