More than 100 motorcycle safety signs have been put up across Northumberland in a bid to help save lives on the region’s roads.
In 2021, a total of 310 motorcycle riders died on UK roads – a 9% increase from 2020.
In Northumberland, there have been four fatal collisions involving motorcycles already this year.
Northumbria Police says each tragedy has compounded the need for greater awareness and consideration by all road users – and has prompted Northumberland County Council to fund more than 100 signs.
The signs, which originate from the Shiny Side Up Partnership, target both motorcycle riders and drivers – and have been strategically placed across the region.
Chief inspector Ian Cutty, Northumbria Police, said: “We all need to play our part in keeping each other safe on our roads – and we hope these signs reinforce that message.
“Whether you’re behind the wheel of a car or riding a motorcycle, we are asking everyone to be more aware and considerate of others.
“The other person in that vehicle or on that motorcycle has a family or friends, and by changing the way we think and act whilst on our roads every single day, we could ultimately help to save lives.
“We have seen first-hand the absolute devastation caused by serious and fatal collisions – families ripped apart and futures destroyed, and often they are entirely avoidable.
“That’s why we’re asking everyone to think about their actions whether behind the wheel or whilst riding. Don’t take any risks, drive or ride to the conditions and be aware of other road users – especially those who are vulnerable.
“By working together and spreading this message, we can all strive to make our roads as safe as they possibly can be.”
Northumbria Police’s motor patrols department and Operation Dragoon road safety team have run a number of recent operations to help increase the safety of motorcycle riders.
Officers have been working with rider groups, drivers, road safety partners and Northumberland County Council to promote everyone’s collective responsibility to keep all road users safe.
Cllr Colin Horncastle, deputy chair of Northumberland Fire Authority, and himself a keen biker, added: “Northumberland is a beautiful county and it’s easy to see why it attracts thousands of bikers each year.
“But we have thousands of miles of very rural roads which can be challenging for all users – with blind summits, sharp bends, livestock, car drivers and pedestrians all on the highway.
“We hope people take heed of this messaging – it’s very simple but can save lives.”
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