Factors affecting the accident risk of motorcyclists were investigated using a questionnaire developed from pilot research. This investigated riding behaviour, accident rate (including minor spills), age, mileage and experience. 11,360 questionnaires were returned, representing a 40% response rate. Errors, lapses and mistakes accounted for 10.3% of the variance, speed violations accounted for 9.4%, extreme risk taking accounted for 8.1%, use of safety equipment for 7.5%, and control errors for 5.9%. MANOVA analyses indicated that lower age and less experience were predictors of accidents. Accident exposure increased the likelihood of using safety equipment as did high mileages. A logistic regression model predicting the likelihood of involvement in a blame accident is described. Errors, rather than violations, were important predictors of blame accident involvement among respondents. The adoption of safer riding behaviours and better training were recommended.
Abstract