Newsletter keeps Hampshire bikers informed

Hampshire County Council, in partnership with Hampshire Constabulary, has produced Biker Insight - a newsletter aimed at helping motorcyclists understand the dangers they face on the county’s roads.

Following 31 fatalities in the Hampshire area last year, Biker Insight aims to set out the facts about casualties and will, over three editions in 2004, give advice and
information on how to stay safe - as well as highlighting particular problem roads in the county. The newsletter will be distributed through motorcycle clubs, training establishments, dealers and pubs as well as at stopping places on roads popular with motorcyclists. Police patrols will also hand out Biker Insight to motorcyclists stopped for traffic offences.

The newsletter is closely linked to the county’s successful rider assessment initiative, the Edge44, which supports the national Bikesafe programme. It is hoped that the newsletter will emphasise the importance of improving skills and encourage riders to attend the course.

‘Through Biker Insight, we not only want to show motorcyclists how vulnerable they really are,’ says Ernie Sage, road safety services manager, ‘but also how they can take steps to reduce the risks to themselves through safer riding practices.’

For a copy of Biker Insight or further information on the Edge44, please contact keith.garlick@hants.gov.uk