Top tips and saf ety adv the Sus ice from sex Saf er Road s Partn ership
Issue:03
Group R ide Find out ho s w reduce the to risks while trave lling in a large gro up Page 22
e Protectiv clothing r what to wea to maximise your safety Page 8
www.SussexSaferRoads.gov.uk
About the SSRP The Sussex Safer Roads Partnership (SSRP) is continuing its work to reduce road casualties across Sussex through structured programs of education and enforcement initiatives. Every year in the Partnership, we refine and develop strategies in these key areas to make the roads of Sussex safer, building safer communities by sharing the responsibility and engaging with members of the public - our greatest asset in the development of a safer road environment. Sussex Police and the three local highway authorities (East and West Sussex County Councils and Brighton and Hove City Council) fund the activities of the Partnership. Other partners include the Fire and Rescue Services from West and East Sussex and the Highways Agency. A common misconception is that the Partnership retains fines from speeding offences this is incorrect as this money goes directly to the Government. For more information about the work of the SSRP, please take a look at our website: www.SussexSaferRoads.gov.uk
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Contents 02: About the SSRP 03: Change is Afoot 04: Bikers in Bus Lanes 08: Protective Clothing 10: 10 Things to Carry 11: Data 12: Routes to Riding 14: New Rider Awareness 16: Biker Down 18: Bike Safe in Sussex 20: Further Training Opportunities 22: Group Rides 24: Ride Outs 27: Crash Cards
Change is afoot… Things are happening on the roads of Sussex that you need to know about. For a start, there’s an 18 month trial where bikers can use certain bus lanes in and around Brighton to ease congestion in the city (check out our feature on pages 4 and 5). Then there are the updated routes to getting a motorcycle licence which you’ll need to know about if you’re thinking about getting out on two wheels (or know someone who is). As if that wasn’t enough, there are two new, free, training courses on offer to
increase bikers’ skills and knowledge on the roads. Have a look at our coverage of Biker Down and New Rider Awareness to find out more! We hope that you enjoy this edition of Sussex Biker. Now in its third year, we’ve put in a few design changes suggested by the many motorcyclists we’ve met over the past two years. So have a flick through and then tell us what you think! Email us at: communications@sussexsaferroads.gov.uk Until the next edition, safe riding! The Sussex Biker Team. 03
Bikers in Bus Lanes
Brighton Bus Lanes now featuring… Bikers?
From May 2013, motorcycles, scooters and mopeds can use the bus lanes between Carden Avenue and Preston Drove (A23) in Brighton, and Telscombe Cliffs Way and Ovingdean roundabout on the coast road (A259) This is an 18-month trial scheme. If it’s successful, then bikers may be allowed to use these bus lanes on a permanent basis. Three wheelers (trikes) and motorcycles with side cars are not permitted to use the bus lanes during this trial, and advanced stop lines for cyclists are not to be used by motorcyclists either. In order to ‘be a success’, these trial routes will need to demonstrate: • No impact on the number of motorcyclists or other road users injured • No significant increase in speed from motorcyclists • Reduced congestion and improved journey times on these routes The scheme has received the backing of the local Motorcycle Action Group, as well as City Councillors and local MPs. These are the only bus routes in Sussex that can be used by motorcyclists at the moment – so ensure that you stay out of all the others! Riding in the bus lanes could expose you to other dangers that you wouldn’t normally find in the main traffic flow. We’ve put together 10 Top Tips on the next page to flag up some of these dangers, and the steps that you’ll want to take to avoid them. 04
ay 2013
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Don’t know where these are? No worries - Just scan this QR code to be taken to a local area map! Or Visit: www.BusLaneUsers.co.uk
Your feedback is going to be really important to the development of the scheme, and to the potential for it to become permanent after the trial period. Make sure that you have your say by logging onto Brighton & Hove City Council’s Traffic Regulation Order proposal pages: http://bit.ly/tropage Submissions close 4 November 2013
Get involved. Get around safely. 05
s for Top 10 tip anes l s u b in riding the normal across from ss the g n vi o m rs to cro t for ca 01: Look ou ffic – Cars will still need a tr ns g tio in c flow of jun , t in and out e g to rtaking them e n ve la o bus you are If ts lis y e yc th c at t for Be aware th 02: Look ou p the inside. u erally not g n in e o g g re id a avo g and in m o c u yo r may not hea irrors red space fitted with m lane is a sha e h T d a o eR cyclists 03: Share th buses, taxis, y b d se u e which can b les ainly be and motorcyc - They will m s n a ri st e d e g into the of p 04: Beware efore steppin b s , se u b r fo rnings (horn looking out r audible wa e d si n o C y. carriagewa priate to not a yell) eep it appro K d e e sp r u 05: Watch yo re ons iti d n - This is whe o c e th at junctions n tio n d e n tt a a d r n u so look arou 06: Raise yo ns happen, o si lli o s c n st tio o c m ’a er road users k over anticipate oth y have to loo a m u o Y s k c e d h c r r o irection, 07: Life save ers when altering speed ve not pulled both should ad users ha ro r e th o t a to check th just to you ycles - To ad rc up alongside to o m r e th y vertaking o rcyclists ma 08: Avoid o er side, moto ith e to m e o fr tic s o n the hazard e at short to the entire lan e expecting have to cross ey will not b h T . n o si lli o avoid a c bers of eir path - As the num find you in th s e c n a st m d and the circu on the spee ff o se 09: Adjust to a e , se increa pavement pedestrians l step off the a su ite a c e th the solid wh be alert to Do not cross s e re a in L re e ite lane where th 10: Solid Wh and exit the lines. Enter broken lines. 06
Protective Clothing Helmets Helmets need to be made to an approved standard. These are: BS 6658:1985 (and have the British Kitemark) ECE 22.05 For more details, visit www.sharp.direct.gov.uk Never buy a second-hand helmet – you don’t know if they’ve been dropped or damaged (you can’t always tell from just looking at them). Wearing a helmet is a legal requirement for motorcyclists and scooter/moped riders in the UK.
Be seen! While dark clothing is popular, it can make riders difficult to see in low-light conditions, or against dark backgrounds. Add something that’s both fluorescent and reflective to help you stand out. Look for clothing which will protect you against the wind, rain and weather as well as having good amounts of armour to cushion the impact should you come off. Fitted cuffs and waists will help stop wind blowing into the garments. You should try to buy clothing with good abrasion (rubbing) and impact resistance. Many injuries are caused simply by a rider sliding a few feet on the floor – good quality clothing will scuff in a way that your skin doesn’t! If you don’t like the look of motorcycle trousers, you can buy padded jeans. These don’t offer the same levels of protection, but are better than shorts! When you wash waterproof clothing, don’t use a detergent – use something designed for cleaning waterproofs. If you’re wearing leathers, make sure that you regularly clean the stitching.
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Visor When buying a new visor, make sure that it has British Standard Approval marks. Your visor must let more than 50% of visible light through – dark or iridium visors often block too much light out, which can be highly dangerous. A tinted visor must not be worn at night. The visor also needs to be marked as ‘shatterproof’.
Gloves If you come off, the first thing that you’ll do is put out your hand – so you’ll need decent protection. Make sure you get a pair which fit tightly – and remember that they’ll probably stretch with use (so consider buying them slightly small to let them ‘wear in’). You can buy gloves with palm padding – this can make long rides more comfortable and reduce the fatigue brought on by vibration through the forks. Try plenty of pairs on in the shop and ask for advice if you’re not sure. Good gloves will keep your hands ventilated and protected – making your ride even more pleasurable!
Boots Although there’s no legal requirement to wear armoured, waterproof, boots, it’s a good idea. Decent boots will give you grip and stability when you pull to a halt at traffic lights and, if you come off, will go a long way to making sure that you can walk in the next six months. Ideally, your boots should offer protection for the shin, heel and ankle.
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10 things to carry
01: Tools Not the whole tool box, just enough to cope with minor repairs 02: Reflective Vest If you break down it is advisable to give a motorist every opportunity to see you 03: Safety Blanket A number of uses. It can double up as a jacket liner if you get caught in wet or cold weather 04: Visor Wipe After your visor has collected all the flies, it is good to wipe them off and start again 05: Microfibre Cloth After a downpour, a simple wipe-down of the bike can save your leathers getting soggy 06: Bulbs Better to be able to continue the ride than cancel it because the nearest bulb outlet is closed until Monday 07: Ear
Plugs
08: Emergency Cash/Card For those things you just can’t plan for 09: Puck Stand or crushed soft drinks can will do 10: Small can of penetrating oil Some times all your bike needs is a little squirt of oil 10
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Routes to Riding Entry Age 16
Entry Age 17 or Over
Compulsory Basic Training
Compulsory Basic Training
Valid for 2 Years
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Valid for 2 Years If you hold a valid CBT Certificate from riding a moped - or have a full moped licence - you do not have to re-take a CBT
IF COMPLETED
IF COMPLETED
You can now ride a 50cc moped restricted to 28mph with L Plates - No Passengers. Not allowed on motorways
You can now ride any machine up to 125cc with L Plates - No Passengers . Not allowed on Motorways
Theory Test
Theory Test
Valid for 2 Years You must hold a valid Motorcycle certificate before you take your Practical Category AM Moped Test
Valid for 2 Years You must hold a valid Motorcycle certificate before you take your Practical Category A1 Motorcycle Test
PASS
PASS
Practical Test
Practical Test
2 Part Test Module 1 - Off Road Module 2 - On Road
2 Part Test Module 1 - Off Road Module 2 - On Road
PASS
PASS
AM - Moped Licence
A1 Licence
You can now ride a 50cc moped restricted to 28mph No L Plates - Passengers Allowed
You can now ride a 125cc machine No L Plates - Passengers Allowed
Your options now. . .
Your options now. . .
Keep riding a moped At 17 years or over - Take a motorcycle test
Keep riding a125cc Motorcycle At 19 years or over – You can now take your category A2 test and ride a bike of up to 35kW (46.6bhp)
New regulations from January 2013 Entry Age 19 or Over
Entry Age 24 or Over
Compulsory Basic Training
Compulsory Basic Training
Valid for 2 Years You do not have to re-take CBT if you have a valid A1 licence
Valid for 2 Years You do not have to re-take CBT if you have a valid AM, A1 or A2 licence
IF COMPLETED
IF COMPLETED
You can now ride any machine up to 125cc with L Plates - No Passengers. Not allowed on Motorways
You can now ride any machine up to 125cc with L Plates - No Passengers Not allowed on Motorways
Theory Test
Theory Test
Valid for 2 Years If you hold a valid Motorcycle certificate, or you have held a Category A1 licence for more than 2 years. you do not need to re-take your Theory Test
Valid for 2 Years If you hold a valid Motorcycle certificate, or you have held a Category A2 licence for more than 2 years you do not need to re-take your Theory Test. If you are over 24 years of age and new to motorcycling you will need to take a Motorcycle Theory Test before taking your Practical Full Category A Test.
PASS
PASS
Practical Test
Practical Test
2 Part Test Module 1 - Off Road Module 2 - On Road
2 Part Test Module 1 - Off Road Module 2 - On Road
PASS
PASS
A2 Licence
A Licence
You can now ride any bike up to 35kW (46.6 bhp) No L Plates - Passengers Allowed
You can now ride any machine of your choice No L Plates - Passengers Allowed
Your options now. . . Keep riding a Motorcycle of up to 35kw (46.6bhp) after 2 years or on reaching 24 years of age you can take a Full Category -A Motorcycle Test to ride what ever machine you like*. *In certain circumstance and dependant on when you passed your Motorcycle Theory Test, you may need re-take this. Check with a training expert if in doubt
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top up their training with practical advice and information. The free 90-minute sessions are delivered in colleges across Sussex. Each of the sessions will cover:
Helping new riders in Sussex If you’re new to life on two wheels, then you’ll want to consider getting a free place on the New Rider Awareness workshop – designed specifically for you! It’s a sad fact that motorcyclists are at risk on our roads. Despite powered two wheelers (scooters, mopeds and full motorcycles to you and I) making up just 1% of road traffic, they’re involved in over a quarter of collisions where someone is left seriously injured – or worse. The more experience you get, the safer you tend to be. But there’s a paradox here – the only way to get experience is to get experienced, and that can be risky. The Sussex Safer Roads Partnership have designed a free workshop – New Rider Awareness – to help those who have just taken to life on two wheels 14
• Understanding the causes of crashes • Methods of reducing risk and avoiding crashes • Defensive riding • Increasing hazard perception • Protective clothing – what you need to wear • The law surrounding scooters • Maintenance – some general pointers The New Rider Awareness Workshops aim to build on the information that you’ll have already received from taking your CBT and/or your A1 Licence, giving you additional practical knowledge and insight to help you stay safe. To find out more, please visit www.NewRiderAwareness.co.uk.
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A free life-saving course for bikers in Sussex If you were the first on the scene of an accident involving a biker, would you know what to do? Would you know who is most at risk, how to protect the area or whether you should remove the helmet of a downed rider? Actions taken in the first few moments after an accident can be crucial in minimising injuries and can make a real difference to the lives of those involved. But there can be some uncertainty about what to do in these situations. 16
Biker Down is a free training workshop run by bikers for bikers designed to answer these uncertainties. Using the expertise of the Emergency Services and HSE qualified First Aid Trainers, Biker Down will help motorcyclists be prepared should the worst happen on the roads. The workshops last approximately three hours and are broken down into three modules:
Crash Investigation Reconstruction Unit. Using their experience from investigating serious and fatal motorcycle crashes, they offer an awareness of conspicuity and an insight into the science of being seen. Biker Down was developed after extensive research into the causes of injuries and collisions, and is a radically different approach to helping lower the number of motorcyclists killed and seriously injured on the roads. This is the first time that the training and experience of bikers from the Emergency Services has been used in this way in Sussex.
The first module
looks at initial scene management, the protection of those present and risk assessing the scene.
The second module
is delivered by a qualified HSE First Aid trainer and focuses on assessing the casualty and basic life support. It looks at considerations when dealing with trauma and covers the very topical area of when and how to safely remove a motorcyclist’s helmet.
The third module
gives an overview on why motorcyclists often succumb to the SMIDSY (Sorry Mate, I didn’t See You) scenario. This module is delivered by a member of the Sussex Police Forensic
PC Glen McArthur, Workshop Leader, says: “Biker Down is a scheme delivered by a dedicated team of professionals from the Sussex Police, the Fire and Rescue Service and key members of the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership. Our aim is to raise riders awareness. The actions that they can reasonably take in those initial minutes. “Feedback from the initial pilot workshops has been really good, and we hope to welcome a lot more bikers onto the free sessions this year.” To find out more information regarding the Biker Down workshops contact the team at : bikerdown@sussex.pnn.police.uk or via www.sussexsaferroads.gov.uk Check out the Facebook page at BikerDown Sussex Police. 17
Bike Safe in Sussex BikeSafe is a police led motorcycle project that is run by most forces throughout the UK. The main aim is to reduce the number of bikers being hurt on the roads. We think that riding should be fun and by improving skills, knowledge and hazard awareness it will hopefully make riding safer and more enjoyable. The BikeSafe workshop explores the main issues facing today’s bikers. It also explores the principles of advanced riding through the on-road element. The BikeSafe Observer will give assessment and feedback which will highlight areas where the rider needs to develop. BikeSafe is about starting on the right path to development as it “Bridges the Gap”. Riders should continue to train throughout their riding years and not just stop once they have passed their bike test.
Where
BikeSafe courses are held across Sussex. Check the website – www.bikesafe.co.uk – to find your nearest one.
When
Sessions normally take place on a Saturday or Sunday between 08.30 and 17.00.
Who is involved
The Sussex team consists of motorcycle riders from Sussex Police and the Fire & Rescue Services.
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What to expect
The day will start in the classroom. The morning session is designed to discuss the common causes of motorcycle collisions and to offer techniques which can reduce the risks involved. Once all questions have been answered, lunch will be provided (included in the cost of the day). After lunch you will be observed by an emergency services rider. The ride-out will be on the ratio of 2 students to 1 observer. They will provide you with a written assessment of your ride at the end of the day.
Cost
The cost for the day is ÂŁ50.00 and includes lunch. If there are any special dietary requirements, please let us know in advance.
How to book
All bookings are managed on the national BikeSafe Website:
www.bikesafe.co.uk
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Further training
opportunities Gaining your motorcycle licence is just the start of life on the road, and we recommend that all riders consider topping up their training over time. There are a number of excellent local and national courses designed to do just that, helping motorcyclists of all ages and skill levels fine tune their riding so that they can stay safe on the roads at all times. Many of these courses also allow participants to claim discounts on their insurance with leading companies.
DSA - Enhanced Rider Scheme
The Driving Standards Agency and Motorcycle Insurance Industry Association scheme is designed for fully licensed motorcyclists and is ideal for those who have just passed their test, are upgrading to a more powerful bike, are returning to life on two wheels or riders who simply want a ‘health check’ on their riding. Trainers have had to prove to the DSA that they have the necessary skills and experience to provide quality training to motorcyclists. The trainers also undergo regular quality checks to ensure that they’re maintaining the high standards. A list of trainers can be found by logging onto: www.gov.uk/ enhanced-rider-scheme/overview
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IAM - Skill for Life
Recognising that the majority of collisions are caused by driver or rider error, the Institute of Advanced Motorists’ (IAM) original Advanced Driving Test was introduced in 1956 with the specific objective of significantly improving driving standards. By 1976 the number of motorcyclists in the UK had risen dramatically, so the IAM launched the Advanced Riding Test to help make bikers safer too. The tests are accredited by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). The Advanced Riding Test is not exclusively about safety, but encourages the rider to feel confident on the road, to make good progress, and to get greater enjoyment from the experience. More information can be found on the IAM’s website: http://www.iam.org.uk/riders/riders-courses
Local Advanced Motorcyclist Groups
Both East and West Sussex have active Advanced Motorcyclist Groups. Each offers observed rides and access into the IAM, as well as active social scenes.
WSAM’s website: www.wsam.info ESAM’s website: www.es-am.org.uk
RoSPA Advanced Riders
The RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) Advanced Drivers and Riders aim is to reduce road accidents by encouraging an interest in road safety and by improving driving and riding standards, knowledge and skill. In order to do this, RoSPA Advanced Drivers and Riders have over 50 local groups that will provide free training to help you improve your riding skills and help you train to become an advanced rider. The RoSPA website holds all of the information that you’ll need to find out about this course: www.rospa.com/drivertraining/advanceddrivingandriding 21
Follow these simple guidelines to reduce the risks: PREPARATION Before you start, agree the route. Decide how long and how far you’ll be riding. Exchange mobile ‘phone numbers so you can keep in touch if someone gets separated from the group. And if you decide to go, let someone know. BREAKS Build in regular breaks for comfort stops and fuel. Use this opportunity to eat and drink as it’s easy to get dehydrated and this can affect your concentration. FORMATION Only the Red Arrows can get away with close formations! Leave yourself 22
adequate space for braking. Offset your riding position where possible to stay out of other rider’s blind spots and to give yourself the best possible view ahead. KEEPING UP Ride within the limits of the slowest member of the group. Don’t force them beyond their abilities by making them try to keep up. Better to split into smaller groups and meet up at planned stops along the route. PACK MENTALITY Riding in a group means that you need to be more aware of other road users – especially the other riders in the group. Don’t feel obliged to follow
Group Rides
through if the bikes in front overtake a vehicle. Treat your maneuvers as if you were riding alone and only go when you know it’s safe. You are responsible for your own safety. In traffic break into smaller groups. This will allow you to take up less space and can make you more visible to other road users. Close up and double up at junctions and traffic lights to make more use of the available space and to reduce the chances of being split up.
AND FINALLY... Some people still get intimidated by large groups of bikes. Ride sensibly and remember that on some rural roads you might be one of hundreds of bikes that have passed in a relatively short time. Keep noise to a minimum and try to avoid generating complaints that could lead to unwelcome attention.
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tsf the popular beikx.er u O Ridaere just a fewmoeet up in Suss
P&H Motorcycles 61-63 Gatwick Road Crawley, West Sussex RH10 9RD
Here places to friendly
The Chalet Cafe Henfield Rd Cowfold, Horsham RH13 8DU
Riverside Cafe and Bistro Houghton Bridge, Amberley, West Sussex BN18 9LP
Whiteways Cafe Bury Hill, Houghton, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9FD
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Destination Triumph Washington, West Sussex RH20 4AJ
Alf’s Motorcycles 100 Dominion Road Worthing West Sussex BN14 8JP
Shaws Harley Davidson ( on a Saturday ) Holmes Hill House Holmes Hill, East Sussex BN8 6JA
Wessons Cafe High St Heathfield, East Sussex TN21 0ER
The Six Bells Chiddingly, Lewes, East Sussex BN8 6HT
The Strand Quay Cafe 30 Wish St, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7DA
The Madeira Cafe on Brighton Seafront 15-16 Madeira Drive Brighton BN2 1PS
Willow Cafe Lower Dicker, East Sussex, Hailsham BN27 4BT
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Crash Cards
The crash card ID was designed by paramedics who are passionate about motorcycles. Crash is intended to be a set of easy to remember steps to keep you safe as well as the unfortunate rider who had been involved in a collision, especially if they are injured and are unable to talk coherently because of a decreased level of consciousness or have been knocked out. How does the ambulance crew attending find out who you are, what medication you take or your medical history? What information does the 999 call centre need? How can you help the rider who is injured? One side of the card has the mnemonic CRASH - take time to read it. The person making the 999 call is the most important person at the scene because of the information they give determines the response of the emergency services. The card follows a similar set of questions universally used by ambulance service control centres, and focuses on safety, the location of the accident, and how serious it is. Put the card under the lining of your crash helmet because that’s where the crew will look for it. Remember - removing a crash helmet is a skill that takes two people and is practiced by ambulance personnel - don’t ever attempt to remove another rider’s helmet on your own.
Help alert emergency responders that you carry a card by placing a green dot on the right hand side of your helmet by the visor, making sure it’s not in your field of view. And don’t worry it’s safe to stick it on your helmet. Hopefully no-one will ever need to use the crash card but just carrying it around could make riders everywhere think carefully about their safety.
C R A S H Name Postcode
C A R D
Date of Birth Medication Medical History Contact (Next of Kin)
Allergies
www.SussexSaferRoads.gov.uk Sussex Safer Roads Partnership PO Box 2094, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 6XT Web: www.SussexSaferRoads.gov.uk Email: C Rcommunications@sussexsaferroads.gov.uk A SH C A R D Name Produced in 2013 by the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership. All information correct at the time of going to print. Postcode Date of Birth Medication Medical History Contact (Next of Kin)
Allergies
C R AS H
C A R D
Caution - Don始t put yourself in danger Road - What is your exact location? Accident - Involving how many vehicles? Serious - Is anyone unresponsive? Help - Don始t move casualty, call 999
Printed on recycled paper