Casualty stats identify need for training

Warwickshire’s road safety unit has published casualty statistics that it says ‘identify a clear need for rider training’ among young and inexperienced moped and motorcycle riders.

The statistics show that more than a third of all mopeds and motorcycles involved in injury collisions were ridden by under 21 year olds. And one in every five collisions where moped and motorcycle riders were considered most blameworthy, were attributed to learner, inexperienced or nervous riders.

Stephen Rumble, RSO, said: “Our research clearly shows that young and inexperienced riders, particularly males aged 16 to 20, represent a disproportionately large number of Warwickshire’s casualties.     

“The findings are also reasonably consistent in our neighbouring West Mercia counties. Unfortunately, some young riders are over-confident, ride as if they are immortal and are hard to influence.

“However, many do acknowledge their vulnerability and inexperience and we can now offer free and friendly rider training to help them to be safer.”

To combat the statistics, Warwickshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin have recently re-launched the Take Control rider training scheme, and three of the five courses available are tailored to meet the needs of young riders.

‘CBT Plus’ is an ideal follow on from Compulsory Basic Training, while ‘Auto to Gears’ helps moped riders to progress to riding geared 125cc bikes. The ‘125 Rider Development’ course is a half-day session for riders new to 125cc bikes who are keen to develop their riding skills. 

Stephen Rumble added: “All of the courses last just a few hours and there is no pressure to pass a test or achieve a minimum standard.

“Our instructors simply offer a helpful assessment and riders can complete the courses close to home on roads that they use regularly.”

For more information go to: www.takecontroltraining.co.uk.