Waikato Regional Council news
Warmer weather means increased opportunities for Waikato motorcyclists to get out on the road with a return to spring riding.
But – as riders are heavily over-represented in serious crash statistics – it’s also important to manage the risks of riding well to help ensure you stay safe.
As part of the local Reduce the Risk motorcycle campaign, involving Waikato Regional Council and the New Zealand Transport Agency, a free ‘Ride Forever’ course is being offered to Waikato motorcyclists in conjunction with ACC.
There are five types of courses available: scooters, urban riding and, depending on your experience level, bronze, silver or gold courses. The scooter and urban riding courses take four hours, while the others are eight hours long. Information is available at www.rideforever.co.nz/training
The courses are part of a drive to get riders to gain better skills, which leads to better bike control and confidence, significantly reducing the risk of crashing, says the council’s road safety co-ordinator Monique Haines.
“Motorcycles account for less than three per cent of total vehicles on roads but motorcyclists are 21 times more likely to be killed or severely injured in a crash. They sadly contribute to 17 per cent of deaths and 10 per cent of injuries.
“To reduce the risk we’d encourage riders to take up this opportunity to sharpen their riding skills. It’s quick and easy to register. Just go to rideforever.co.nz and enter the promo code Spring17 to book your free course. Also inform your insurer as some motorcycle insurers will discount your insurance if you participate in Ride Forever training.”
As part of Motorcycle Awareness month ACC will also be promoting the ‘Look Twice for Bikes’ message to other road users, emphasising how seeing motorcycles is harder than spotting larger vehicles.