In Australia, according to the transport and accident commission, males between 40-59 years were more likely to be involved in a motorcycle accident than any other age group. In another statistic, over 90% of accidents occur at 60km/hr or less. 

However, at the same time It is no surprise that experienced riders have up to 64% lower risk of having a crash! But what about inexperienced rider? What are some ways new riders can build valuable experience on the road without putting themselves at a statistically higher risk? 

To become a safer rider with little road experience on a motorcycle, we first need to be open to learning from our experiences and being honest with our mistakes. Consider the following three key points:

Are we always blaming other road users for near misses?
It’s common to blame another driver for pulling out in front of us or not seeing our indicator. However, are we not leaving enough room for drivers by speeding? Are we not considering the safest lane position? Are we putting our indicator on too late or driving too close to the car in front? Regardless of whether its our fault or another road users’ fault, motorcyclists are often the ones that pay the price. Being self-critical and thinking of ways to minimise risk will help new and old riders significantly minimise accident risk.

What’s our attitude to other road users?
You may be able to get away with selfish driving in a car, however on a bike we are vulnerable to the elements around us, and we need to be noticed and respected. Do we show consideration to other vehicles on the road? if someone is about to pull out do we speed up to let them know its our spot, or do we back off and allow them in? Do we ride in a predictable and noticeable manner to other road users?

In many cases, a decision like this could be the difference between life and death. Both experienced and inexperienced riders can greatly reduce the risk of accidents by being more tolerant to road users around them and by avoiding actions that are unpredictable or create unnecessary stress to yourself and other road users. If you find it difficult to concentrate on your riding due to your frustration with other road users, try giving yourself a running commentary on your riding out loud.

A realistic appraisal of your own abilities
New riders, need to be able to recognise their own limitations and to set aside personal goals in the interest of safety. Do we need to leave more time so that we are not rushing out on our journey to work? When turning out from an intersection are we allowing enough time to make the turn? Can we safely take that corner ahead at the speed we are travelling? Considering your reaction time as a new rider, have we left enough room for the car in front if they suddenly applied their brakes?

By recognising our own inexperience, we can adjust our riding according to the situation presented to us. Allow yourself plenty of time to set out for a journey and try planning the precise route you will take beforehand. Try to be honest with your own ability to control your bike safely and effectively.

Try to leave yourself with plenty of space between vehicles when crossing at an intersection or when following a vehicle in front of you. Only by constantly recognising our own capabilities can we become safer and more responsible motorcyclists.