Police support 2wheel campaign.
Roads around Lincoln are popular with cyclists and bikers in summer increasing the risk to these vulnerable road users
In Lincolnshire, of the 52 people who lost their lives in fatal collisions in 2024, 14 were motorcyclists and three were pedal cyclists – this is a third of fatalities. Nationally, 67% of motorcycle fatalities occurred on rural roads.
To coincide with this growing proportion of two-wheel traffic, police are supporting the national 2wheel Campaign which aims to raise awareness and keep both drivers and riders safe.
In 2023, motorcyclists represented a fifth of fatal or serious injury collisions in the UK, despite making up just one per cent of vehicles on the roads.
Roads Policing Inspector Jason Baxter said: “Cyclists and motorcyclists are disproportionately at risk across the UK but specifically, here in Lincolnshire, we have a large proportion of rural roads.
“We know those on two wheels are some of the most vulnerable road users, and this campaign is a chance to remind drivers and riders alike of the importance of taking responsibly and using our roads safely. Enforcement is something we do daily, but this campaign is an opportunity to highlight that activity and reiterate the risks. We are urging all road users to be observant, cautious and courteous.”
Simon Outen-Coe of the Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership said, “Lincolnshire has some wonderful roads that motorcyclists come to enjoy. Whilst we encourage individuals to come and visit, we ask that as a vulnerable road user you ride responsibly, concentrate on your riding and recognise the numerous risks that are present on our rural network. Unfortunately we experience a minority who consider the roads to be akin to a racetrack, whilst we also see careful riders who are involved in collisions where they haven’t been seen.
“Please ride in accordance with the rules of the road when riding here and consider your road position, stopping distances and visibility to others. When driving always remember to look out for vulnerable road users, such as motorbikes and pedal cyclists. When a collision occurs, regardless of who is to blame, it is of no consolation to anyone when you don’t return home.”
“Part of our work involves stopping and engaging with two-wheeled road users to check vehicles are roadworthy and that the riders have the right licence and insurance in place, as well as offering advice on safe riding and protective gear. Through engagement, education and enforcement, we aim to enlist all road users on the importance of road safety.”
Safe riding tips from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue
John Hardy, from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, offered the following tips for safe riding.
“Keep yourself safe, if there is an incident you will want to help but please don’t put yourself in danger. If you ride in a group, give each of you multiple roles such as contacting the police, administering first aid, managing the traffic, getting a defibrillator, so if something does happen you all have roles. Plan your route, look out for where defibrillators are kept and have places where you can stop and wait for other riders to catch up. Download What 3 Words, you may be in a place your unfamiliar with.
“Ride in the right headspace. Don’t let any emotions or distractions get in the way of concentration and focus – this is vital on our roads.”
Sessions and workshops for riders
Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue run free Biker Down sessions - look out on social media for more information.
Motorcyclists can take part in a BikeSafe workshop on Thursday, June 12 . These sessions aim to improve rider skills and safety with each participant having their riding ability observed by a trained police motorcyclist. BikeSafe sessions run throughout the year with booking now open for June and July.