Alfred and TAC urge motorists to take care in lead up to long weekend

05 Mar 2003

Media Release - 5 March 2003

The number of people admitted to The Alfred as a result of motorcycle accidents have soared by 92% compared to the same time last year, The Alfred and the TAC said today.

Since the beginning of January, The Alfred has received 52 injured motorcyclists and passengers, compared with 27 people during the same period last year. In particular there has been an increase of injured motorcycle passengers, with 24 admitted to The Alfred, compared with one for the same time last year.

Director of Trauma Services at The Alfred, Professor Thomas Kossmann, said the latest motorcycle statistics were alarming and cause for concern among all Victorians.

"Our statistics are telling us that riding a motorcycle has never been more dangerous, especially for passengers," Professor Kossmann said.

"We are treating riders and passengers with severe spinal, head and orthopaedic injuries and the emotional and physical effects of these injuries on patients and their families is not only devastating but also life changing.

"Lack of sleep and concentration is a major cause of road accidents among all road users, and traditionally, long weekends and public holidays are very busy for road trauma admission at the Hospital."

Professor Kossmann added that anyone proposing to embark on a long drive during the Labour Day long weekend after little sleep should delay departure by a day to ensure a full recovery.

TAC General Manager Road Safety, David Healy, said motorcyclists accounted for less than 1% of travel on our roads, but comprised 14% of the road toll last year.

"Motorcyclists and their passengers make up one of our more vulnerable road user groups due to the lack of protection in the event of a crash.

"It is critical that both riders and their passengers wear protective clothing at all times.

"It's also important for both riders and their passengers to have an understanding of riding dynamics before getting on a bike, such as leaning into corners and keeping feet on the footrest even when the bike is stationary."

The TAC offered the following tips for motorcyclists and their passengers:

• ensure that riders and passengers wear full protective clothing at all times;
• wear bright colours and turn headlights on at all times to improve the chances of being seen;
• avoid known driver 'blind spots';
• always ride within the speed limit and to the conditions;
• exercise extra caution in rainy and foggy weather and at dawn and dusk when light conditions can be difficult;
• plan your trip before you leave and exercise extra caution on unfamiliar roads;
• never drink alcohol before riding - even small amounts of alcohol can impair riding. A zero Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is the best policy for both riders and passengers;
• take regular breaks on long trips to avoid fatigue;
• take the time to become familiar with the bike, particularly if it is new or borrowed; and
• ensure your bike is maintained and regularly serviced.

Interview Opportunities:

Professor Thomas Kossmann, Director Trauma Services at The Alfred

David Healy, TAC General Manager Road Safety

Motorcycle passenger and Alfred patient, Maryanne Gardener, was injured two weeks ago and suffered severe spinal injuries.

Further information:

The Alfred's Public Affairs Unit
Tel: 9276 2266 or 9276 2000