Buckling down on safety

Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay motorcycle fatalities in 2023 remain at zero, as the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), Department of Transport and Planning and Victoria Police launch motorcyclist awareness month.

Data released on October 3, 2023, reveals the no motorcyclists have died on Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay roads so far this year, compared to four in 2022.

Last year Hobsons Bay recorded one fatality, showing improvement for the municipality.

TAC head of road safety Samantha Cockfield said 60 per cent of motorcyclist fatalities involve other vehicles, making it crucial for drivers to do their part in ensuring the roads are shared safely.

“Everyone needs to be aware of who they’re sharing the road with,” she said.

“Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear appropriate protective gear, and drivers should double check for riders at intersections and when changing lanes.”

So far this year, 35 motorcyclists have died on Victorian roads and more than a quarter of these fatalities have occurred since the beginning of spring.

TAC said motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable of road users – accounting for 17 per cent of deaths and serious injuries, despite only making up four per cent of registered vehicles.

The month-long awareness campaign, led by the Motorcycling Community Engagement Panel, will encourage both motorists and motorcyclists to share the road safely.

So far this year Hobsons Bay has recorded three lived lost on its roads for all road users, while Maribyrnong remains at zero.