BikeSafe Featured on Crimecall: Promoting Motorcycle Safety Across Ireland
An Garda Siochana rolled out the BikeSafe programme nationally in the spring of 2023, following a successful pilot initiative in 2022. This important road safety programme was recently featured as a special segment on RTE’s Crimecall, highlighting its impact and the dedication of Gardaí to saving lives on Irish roads.
BikeSafe is a proactive motorcycle safety initiative that includes a classroom-based workshop followed by an on-road assessed ride, led by an Advanced Garda Motorcyclist., it’s open to all motorcyclist who hold a full valid motorcycle licence and have the appropriate insurance. Whether you’ve recently passed your test, are returning to biking after a break, or are a seasoned rider looking to sharpen your skills, BikeSafe offers valuable insights and training.
The aim of the programme is to share the extensive experience of Garda motorcyclists and encourage riders to pursue post-test training, helping them become safer and more confident on the road. Workshops run nationwide from sprint to autumn each year.
Participants will earn key principles from the Motorcycle Roadcraft manual, including positioning, cornering, and overtaking. The on-road assessment, conducted in a relaxed and supportive environment, gives riders tailored feedback on their skills and areas for improvement.
Garda motorcyclists are among the most highly trained road users in the country, having completed both Standard and Advanced motorcycle courses. Through BikeSafe, they pass on essential knowledge that helps riders recognise hazards and avoid common collision scenarios, using up-to-date data from recent incidents.
An Garda Siochana and the Road Safety Authority fully support Vision-Zero – a goal to eliminate all road fatalities and serious injuries by 2050.
Road Safety Message from An Garda Siochana (as Seen on Crimecall)
During the summer months there is always an increase in the number of motorcyclists on the roads. The road traffic fatalities involving motorcyclists are always disproportionately represented. Motorcyclists represent only 1.4% of the registered vehicles in Ireland. But unfortunately, this year there has been (10) motorcyclists killed, which represents (11) percent of all fatalities this year.
By their nature, motorcyclists are vulnerable to serious injury or death if involved in a road traffic collision. The majority of incidents involving motorcycles are avoidable and all too often, are simply the result of basic errors made by riders. Statistics show that they are six times more likely to be killed on the roads than any other road users.
Our message to motorcyclists is:
- Ease off the throttle and keep within the speed limits.
- Make sure your motorcycle is roadworthy.
- Make sure you wear CE approved protective clothing & helmet.
- Read the road & ride within your capabilities.
- Be constantly aware of your surroundings – good observation is key.
- Adapt your riding to poor weather conditions.
- Expect the unexpected.
Our Message to Drivers is:
- Be vigilant at junctions. Look out for motorcycles.
- Check your blind spots.
- Increase your following distance behind a motorcycle.
- Be courteous and give motorcycles space.
