This report describes the road hazard associated with motorcycling. The reasons likely to underlie this phenomenon were sought. Compared to the car, the motorcycle is frequently used by young persons. They are subject to a considerably greater risk than older motorcyclists. Additionally, a motorcycle is more difficult to control. It offers a motorcyclist little protection against injury. Other road users have difficulty taking into account the motorcyclists' presence and behaviour. In recent years, developments have occurred which are strongly age-related. Both the number of riders under 25 years of age, and their average annual number of kilometres travelled has dropped. They are exposed dropped. They are exposed to a greater risk. The number of motorcyclists between 25 and 50 years of age has risen sharply. Both their average annual number of kilometres travelled, and risk has remained about the same. In 1992, over 60% of all seriously injured motorcyclists was between 25 and 50 years of age. The number of motorcyclists in the group aged upward of 50 years has increased. Their average number of kilometres travelled has remained the same, while their risk has dropped. This group is likely to include many experienced riders. The final outcome of these developments is that the overall number of seriously injured motorcyclists has increased.
Abstract