Northern Ireland Motorcycle Fatality Report 2012

The 39 case studies analysed in this report are a representative sample of motorcycle fatalities in Northern Ireland between 2004 and 2010. The report contains an analysis of the collisions investigated and includes information relating to vehicle data, the collision scene and the environment as well as human factors. Overall, 41 motorcyclists were fatality injured in these case studies.

The evidence provided in this report indicates that each road traffic collision is unique but that in all cases the time frame from the perceived hazard to the conclusion of the impact either with another vehicle or with road infrastructure was typically between two and three seconds.

Summary of findings:
• In 63.4% of cases, (26/41) motorcyclists applied their brakes prior to the collision and 18 (43.9%) applied their brakes severely. Of the 17 (41.4%) motorcycles that slid after falling, 10 (24.4%) fell onto their right side and the remaining seven (17.1%) fell onto their left side.

• There were two cases identified where Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) may have made a difference to the outcome of the collision, both of which were on a straight section of road. At this point in time, the application of ABS on motorcycles is limited to straight sections of the road.

• A focus group discussed the relevance of technology on vehicles as a deterrent to collisions as well as the advantages of teaching hazard perception and anticipation in initial and advanced training as a defence against potential collisions. The consensus was that while technology may in some cases be beneficial, good training was more important. However, the availability, image and cost of advanced training seemed to be a barrier to getting more riders involved.