Drive SMART Surrey campaign aims to keep young riders safe

Nearly a quarter of all motorbike casualties are in the 16-20 age group

A new joint campaign by Surrey County Council and Surrey Police aims to keep young bikers and moped riders safe.

In the latest Drive SMART campaign, motorists will be urged: "Don’t just look for motorbikes. See them."

Young bikers and moped riders will be asked to be aware of drivers of other vehicles who are not concentrating on the roads, with the warning: "Don’t let your first bike be your last."

The message will be promoted to riders via a Facebook advert and through special phone box ‘wraps’ at 22 locations across the county.

There will also be a separate Facebook page for young riders.

The latest collision statistics show that nearly a quarter of all motorbike casualties are in the 16-20 age group, the group which tends to ride mopeds and smaller bikes.

In 2010 there were 432 motorcyclist casualties in Surrey. Riders aged 16-20 alone accounted for 101 casualties. National figures show that around 75 per cent of serious motorbike collisions involve at least one other vehicle.

Collision rates are highest during the commuting hours of 8am to 9am and 5pm to 6pm, indicating that young riders are particularly vulnerable commuting to college or work.

Dr Andrew Povey, Leader of Surrey County Council, said: "Through our Drive SMART campaign we’re urging all young riders to take extra care while they build up their road experience and we’re encouraging other road users to pay more attention to mopeds and motorbikes."

Further information:
Drive SMART Surrey