Road safety for bikers

In 2024 there were 15,960 reported motorcycle casualties in the UK which resulted in 340 deaths. Taking simple, proactive steps to improve your safety on the road can make a vital difference:

Always wear proper protective clothing: 

• Helmet: Wear a certified full-face helmet that fits properly  
• Jacket and trousers: Abrasion-resistant materials (leather or textile with armour)  
• Gloves: Protect hands during falls  
• Boots: Over-the-ankle boots for support and impact protection  
• High-visibility clothing: Helps other road users see you  

Assume other drivers can’t see you  

• Motorcycles are smaller and easier to miss 
• Avoid riding in vehicle blind spots  
• Position yourself where drivers can see you in mirrors  
• Use headlights during the day  
• Be cautious at junctions, where many motorcycle collisions occur  

Keep a safe following distance 

• Think ahead and anticipate risks  
• Watch for turning vehicles and pedestrians  
• Scan the road for hazards like gravel, oil, or potholes  

Manage speed carefully  

• Ride within the speed limit  
• Slow down on wet, icy, or uneven roads  

• Adjust speed for visibility and traffic  
• Reduce speed in busy or unfamiliar areas  

Check your motorcycle before riding  

Do quick safety checks:  

• Tyres: pressure and tread  
• Brakes: working correctly  
• Lights: indicators and brake lights  
• Chain and fluids  

Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs

• Look twice at junctions and roundabouts -Motorcycles are smaller and easier to miss, so take an extra moment to check before pulling out or turning.  
• Check mirrors and blind spots – always check mirrors and do a quick shoulder check before changing lanes or turning.  
• Give motorcyclists plenty of space – keep a safe distance and avoid cutting in when overtaking.  
• Signal clearly and avoid distractions – use indicators early and stay focused so riders can predict what you’re about to do.  

A second look, more space, and clear signals can help to prevent serious crashes. 

Knowing what to do – and what not to do – if you are involved in or witness a motorcycle crash can make a real difference. Injured motorcyclists need to be treated carefully to avoid causing further harm. 

That’s why we run free Biker Down courses – to reduce motorcycle casualties by equipping riders with essential knowledge, practical skills, and the confidence to reduce risks on the road and respond safely and effectively if a collision occurs.

Find out more and sign up for a Biker Down course

IAM RoadSmart Solent

An IAM RoadSmart affiliated road safety group offering advanced motorcycle training in Hampshire, East Dorset, South Wiltshire, Isle of Wight and West Sussex. Their aim is to promote safer riding by equipping riders with motorcycling skills for life. They offer FREE Assessed Rides at Solent Sunday, held on the first Sunday of each month (March to November). Find out more 

TVAM

TVAM is a vibrant community for motorcyclists in the Thames Valley, who are dedicated to supporting one another and having fun whilst building riding skills, helping you to become a safer and better rider. Find out more

Bike Safe

Bike Safe is a police led motorcyclist, assessment and referral scheme. The aim of Bike safe is to encourage you to take advantage of accredited post-test training and to encourage positive rider behaviour and attitudes.  Find out more. 

Enhanced Rider Scheme

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)) enhanced rider scheme checks your motorcycle riding skills and provides training to help you improve. Find out more.

ROSPA advanced motorbike riders

ROSPA provide advanced driving and riding tuition and road safety advice. Find out more.