Have your say on motorbike safety in Queensland

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel
06/05/2008
Have your say on motorbike safety in Queensland
A consultation paper is being launched seeking public input into ways to
improve motorbike rider safety on the roads.

Minister for Transport John Mickel said 75 people died as a result of
motorbike crashes last year. He said Queensland Transport had launched the
paper to gather information on road safety issues facing riders.

"While motorbike riders are a relatively small proportion of road users,
they are over-represented in injury and fatal crashes,'' Mr Mickel said.

"Motorbike riders are four and half times more likely to be involved in a
crash and are 30 times more likely to be killed than other vehicle
drivers,'' he said.

The consultation paper outlines a number of proposals and gives the
community the chance to suggest ways to improve motorbike safety.

The consultation process will close on Friday, May 30.

Proposals in the consultation paper include:
? introducing practical pre-learner training, requiring a perso n to
complete an off-road basic motorbike handling course before being granted
a learner licence
? introducing a separate moped licence
? improving rider safety through protective clothing or clothing to
increase visibility to other road users
? reducing the number of dormant licence holders
? improving road conditions for motorbike riders.
Copies of the consultation paper can be obtained at

www.transport.qld.gov.au/motorbike_safety or by phoning 3253 4910.

Ministerial contacts: Shannon Mackay 3237 1125

May 5, 2008
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