In the first four months of 2024, a concerning trend has emerged on Queensland roads – one-third of motorists killed were motorcyclists, despite only a small percentage of road users travelling on two wheels. This spike in fatal motorcycle crashes has contributed to a total of 94 lives lost in crashes during this time period, with 31 of those being motorcyclists. This represents a significant increase from the previous five-year average. These stark figures have prompted the RACQ, Queensland’s peak motorists’ body, to launch a new safety push urging motorcyclists to prioritize safety over ego.
RACQ road safety manager Joel Tucker emphasized the disproportionate number of motorcyclist deaths compared to their presence on the roads, with motorcycles making up only around 4% of vehicles in Queensland but accounting for 33% of the road toll. Tucker highlighted the inherent risks of riding a motorcycle compared to a car, citing the lack of protection and the need for riders to be mindful of factors such as traffic conditions and skill level. This safety push aims to raise awareness among motorcyclists about the need to ride responsibly and avoid behaviors that increase their risk on the roads.
During an Easter road safety blitz in April, Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrew Pilotto of the Queensland Police Service’s road policing and regional support command expressed concern over the over-representation of motorcyclists in the state’s road toll. He urged motorcycle riders and their loved ones to have conversations about safe riding practices and to address any risky behaviors. The majority of motorcyclists who have died were male, with men often being more inclined to take risks while riding.
The focus on motorcycle safety in Queensland comes at a crucial time as the number of fatalities involving motorcyclists continues to rise. With an estimated 280,000 RACQ members riding motorcycles, there is a significant need for targeted education and awareness campaigns to address the heightened risk faced by motorcyclists on the roads. By encouraging riders to prioritize safety, consider their skill level, and ride responsibly, organizations like the RACQ hope to reduce the number of tragic accidents and deaths involving motorcyclists in the future.
The new safety push launched by the RACQ aims to remind motorcyclists of the importance of making safe decisions while on the road. By encouraging riders to “drop the ego, not the bike,” the campaign seeks to shift the focus from reckless behavior to responsible riding practices. With the risks associated with riding a motorcycle well-known, it is crucial for motorcyclists to be vigilant, aware of their surroundings, and committed to following traffic laws and guidelines to protect themselves and others on the road.
As the state of Queensland grapples with a growing road toll, particularly concerning the number of motorcyclist fatalities, it is clear that a proactive approach to road safety is needed. By engaging with the motorcycle community, raising awareness about the risks involved, and promoting safe riding practices, organizations like the RACQ are working towards reducing the number of tragedies on the roads. Through a combination of education, advocacy, and community involvement, Queensland aims to create a safer environment for all road users, including motorcyclists, and prevent further loss of life on its roads.
