Many riders would like to see more motorcycle awareness taught to learner drivers like the computer-generated videos UK has just introduced.
Australian states have various versions of motorcycle and bicycle awareness training, but none as good as this.
Even though this is a great presentation and only one of many, we do have one quibble: Who in their right mind would drive out in front of headlights, anyway, whether they are a car or motorcycle?
Motorcycle awareness training
There are various similar training methods in most Australian states that include motorcycle awareness and “sharing the road”.
For example, Queensland’s PrepL interactive online learning and assessment program for learner drivers includes one module out of three which concentrates on sharing the road with different user groups such as motorcyclists.
Qld’s PrepL training“This module helps participants understand specific road rules related to motorcycles and provides practical advice about how drivers should safely interact with them,” a Transport and Main Roads spokesperson says.
However, like Australian leaner driver training, the UK Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency videos are only part of the training, not part of the theory test.
We would like to see at least one motorcycle awareness question on the theory test as well as one about lane filtering.
NSW say they are improving their testing regimes to include references to “safe interaction with heavy vehicles, motorcyclists, bicycle riders and pedestrians”.
It will be supported by “new digital education platforms for young drivers and their parents or guardians”.
“Transport for NSW is also reviewing various components of the Graduated Licensing Scheme to ensure references to vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists, promote positive interactions and maintain safety for all road users. These components include the Driver Knowledge Test, the Hazard Perception Test and their accompanying resources.”
Safety campaigner
The UK videos have been made with the help of road safety campaigner and keen biker Ria Brisland.
His 19-year-old son, Nick, died in April 2015 after being involved in a collision with a car while riding his motorcycle.
Nick Brisland“Getting everyone to be aware of their fellow road users at all times is essential if we are to prevent collisions and the devastating consequences they can have on families,” Ria says.
“These new clips are thought-provoking and will make a difference to the way people look for bikers. They may prove the difference between life and death.”