Motorbike Insurance News from Be Wiser

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Wet Roads Pose A Huge Threat To Motorcyclists

Tuesday, 05/01/2010

Motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable groups of road users, and are 45 times more likely to be killed on the road than car drivers.

Motorcyclists represent less than 1% of all road traffic but suffer 18% of deaths and serious injuries on our roads.

Reports that road accidents could raise by as much as 15% this month may encourage motorcyclists and other motorists to exercise a little more caution. 

Motorcycles account for thousands of road accidents and approximately 7,000 motorcyclists are either killed or suffer serious personal injuries each year and countless motorcycle accident claims are made.

Winter roads (between October and March) stay wetter for longer, which can increase the skidding risk. However summer roads are a lot drier and very dusty, which can ‘polish’ the road making it just as slippery.

Motorcyclists should reduce their speed by 20% on wet roads, giving them more time to react and brake-motorcyclists may not have enough traction to brake hard so stopping ahead of time is crucial. Allowing more breaking distance is vital on wet roads, by abiding by the rule of thumb more accidents could be avoided - a 2 second gap in the dry and a 4 second gap in the wet.

Correct tyre pressure is essential for a motorbike to perform properly and a properly performing tyre is even more important on wet roads. Depending on your experience, skill, preparation and risk tolerance, riding a motorcycle in the rain can be anything from frightening to fun.

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