Scooter safe launched to combat rising PTW casualties in City of London

Scooters are becoming increasingly popular in the City of London - especially since the introduction of the congestion charge - but this is resulting in a rise in accidents. The latest statistics for 2002 indicate that motorcycle casualties are rising and have overtaken pedestrian figures.

To combat this, the Corporation of London’s road safety team and the City of London Police are holding Scooter Safe, a unique road safety event for scooter and motorbike riders in the City, 7-14 April.

To help riders survive London’s busy traffic, Scooter Safe will offer free assessed rides with experts. Riders will be accompanied by advanced motorcyclists to observe and give tips and advice on how to cope with hazards and traffic in everyday riding situations.

Afterwards they will be given a detailed assessment and practical advice to help improve their riding skills - and the offer of more training if required. As such, riders will go away armed with advanced riding techniques to help make them more skilful, more aware and safer.

"As a rider myself I know only too well the dangers of motorcycling in the City," says Matthew Collins, Corporation of London’s senior RSO. "Scooter and motorcycle riders are vulnerable road users and can easily be injured or even killed if involved in an accident.

"Scooter Safe is a fantastic opportunity for riders to brush up on their riding skills in the hands of expert advanced motorcyclists. People will go away with greater confidence to ride in the City with safety - and all for free," he adds.

The Corporation’s road safety team can be contacted on 020 7332 1234 for more details.