This is the final report on the behaviour of moped riders in traffic. Even after compensating for kilometers riden, mopeds have the highest accident rate of any type of transport. The chance of having an accident causing injury or death is 70 times higher for moped riders than for cyclists. The age group most at risk are the over 40's and the 17 - 18 years old. Moped riders compensate adequately for poor weather conditions, but wet and slippery roads do cause problems. Alcohol abuse is relatively uncommon. Four levels of tasks accomplished by moped riders are studied. This indicated that: (a) the number of observations that a rider can make in real traffic conditions are restricted; (b) their control over their machines is minimal; (c) mandatory signs are frequently ignored; and (d) manoeuvres are made without warning. Not many educational programmes are available for moped riders, and these have not been successful, mainly because they are only voluntary. Some conclusions have been drawn about present methods of teaching and educational objectives have been revised. The most useful measures that could be taken to improve safety are: (a) legislation to limit the type of bike a rider can use according to riding experience; (b) a mandatory licence for moped riders; (c) greater law enforcement, particularly of speed levels. Maximum possible speed can be estimated from measurements of engine power. The police are not enthusiastic about such tests however, because the legal consequences of having a moped with a high powered engine are so small, and they lack the personnel to carry out sufficient tests. For part 2 see IRRD 828573.
Abstract