Get home safe - drive to survive
Last modified: 01 Sep 2022 12:36pm
Ride to survive is the message for Selwyn motorcyclists.
With spring in the air and the promise of fine days to come motorcyclists around the country are gearing up to get back on the
road and enjoy the better riding weather. In the past three years, three riders have died and 43 have been injured in crashes on Selwyn roads.
The statistics show the main cause of motorcycle crashes in Selwyn is from the riders’ own actions, mainly through poor handling techniques, poor observation, poor road positioning or alcohol. They also show these accidents most commonly happen in
spring and summer, during the day, in dry conditions and on main roads.
The message is clear, riders need to ride to survive, Selwyn Road Safety Advisor Mike Patterson says. “We want everyone to get home safe. When we look at the statistics the main cause of crashes is from riders’ own actions. So there’s an onus on riders to ride within your ability, take care and be vigilant. You need to leave yourself some space to react if things change.”
There are simple tips riders can take to keep themselves safe, Mr Patterson says, such as slow down, keep a good road position to see and be seen and don’t presume you’ve been seen by other road users.
Riders in Selwyn also have access to free, expert on-road coaching sessions through the Ride Forever programme, supported by the Council.
Ride Forever is a national programme that offers multiple levels of on-road coaching available to suit all needs and experience levels. The coaches offer an eight hour interactive instruction session and if you book through any of the three Canterbury trainers, the Council will cover the cost.