Motorcycle Safety in London (report)

Statistics show that just 1% of journeys made in London are by motorcycle, yet riders account for 27% of the people killed or seriously injured on the Capital’s roads.

In this report, the London Assembly says TfL’s Motorcycle Safety Action Plan – developed in 2014 – is now outdated and needs to be renewed with new safety measures.

The report concludes that the mayor of London and TfL should consider reinstating plans to develop a ‘London Standard’ for motorcycle safety training – which was omitted from the mayor’s draft Transport Strategy published in February 2018.

The report raises concerns over reductions in TfL’s road maintenance budget, suggesting that motorcyclists are particularly susceptible to poor road surface conditions. It also calls for motorcyclists to be allowed to ride in all bus lanes.

On a positive note, the report describes TfL’s Urban Motorcycle Design Handbook as a ‘major step forward for motorcycle safety’ – adding that it is important the guidance set out in the book is followed.