Campaign reaches out to ‘second generation’ bikers

The Kent & Medway Safety Camera Partnership is in the process of producing a publicity campaign to address the problem of rising fatalities among motorcyclists in the county. The campaign reminds bikers of the comparatively high risk of death or paralysis that they face because of their chosen mode of transport.

"In common with a number of other parts of the country we have a significant problem with second generation bikers," explains, Ian Procter, Chairman of K&MSCP. "These are typically guys with the financial means to purchase, insure and maintain a high performance bike – but unfortunately their riding skills are often somewhat rusty.

"The combination of a powerful bike and an out of touch rider – who thinks he still possess the skills and reactions he possessed 20 years ago – is a lethal one, as the casualty figures testify," Ian adds.

The campaign breaks in mid-April and will feature a series of three roadside posters, supported by smaller posters, flyers and leaflets. The roadside posters will be positioned at locations where motorcycle accidents have happened in recent years, and the other material will be distributed at places where bikers congregate in numbers. In addition, rider assessment and development courses for motorcyclists will be promoted.

Further information about this campaign can be obtained from Lorraine Collins, lorraine.collins@kent.gov.uk.