PSNI Plea to Northern Ireland Bikers

The PSNI have appealed to Motorcyclists in Northern Ireland to take approved courses after yet another death on our roads at the weekend. A 23 year old Cavan man died in Fermanagh on Saturday evening after losing control of his motorcycle and hitting a telegraph pole. He has been named locally as Neil McPhillips.

Following his death PSNI Inspector Ian Kennedy launched an appeal to the motorcycling fraternity to be more careful and make sure they are properly prepared for their journey.

“Motorcyclists have little protection when involved in a collision. A major degree of responsibility for personal safety lies with the rider, but there is a lot of responsibility with drivers of other vehicles to be more aware of motorcycles on our roads too.”

“The best scenario is that all motorcyclists aim to take some form of approved training, book an appointment with the PSNI Bikesafe Program or take an approved course with an approved instructor.”

The PSNI wish to point out that you cannot fault approved rider training and safety tips, with motorcyclists knowing how to ride safely in the current road condition, how to brake safely etc.

There is growing support for the MAG Think Bike Campaign and we believe the government now has a duty to step up the campaign to educate drivers about motorcycle awareness.

Issued 21 Sep 04