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Young Male Motorcyclists Face Alarming Rise in Road Fatalities in NSW

today20 October 2024

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The New South Wales government has issued a stark warning this Motorcycle Awareness Month, highlighting a troubling trend: young male motorcyclists are dying on the state’s roads at almost twice the rate of other groups. Authorities are urging both riders and drivers to exercise increased caution to help reduce these tragic incidents.

As of 8 October 2024, motorcycles have been involved in 50 of the 258 road deaths in NSW, marking the highest proportion in a decade. Despite representing only 3.8% of registered vehicles in the state, motorcyclists account for a significant 19.4% of this year’s road fatalities.

Data from 2014 to 2023 reveals that out of 590 motorcycle-related deaths, 142 were riders aged between 20 and 29—63 more fatalities than the next age bracket of 30 to 39-year-olds. The overwhelming majority of these young victims were male, with 138 men and just four women losing their lives. Additionally, one-third of the deaths in this age group involved riders holding a Learner or Provisional licence.

Speeding remains the leading cause of these fatal accidents, mirroring trends seen across all vehicle categories.

Motorcycle Awareness Month, an initiative by the Motorcycle Council of NSW, aims to promote safety and protect some of the most vulnerable road users. The NSW Government supports this campaign annually and has implemented several programs to enhance motorcyclist safety. These include testing protective clothing and helmets and running the “Ride to Live” campaign to educate all road users on sharing the road responsibly.

For more information on protective gear and helmet safety, visit motocap.com.au.

Minister for Roads, John Graham, expressed deep concern over the alarming statistics. “The fact that young male motorcyclists are dying at such a high rate is deeply troubling,” he said. “No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one in a preventable accident. During Motorcycle Awareness Month, it’s crucial to recognise that motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable when other drivers make poor decisions. I urge all drivers to stay alert, be mindful, and help keep motorcyclists safe. Remember, taking an extra moment to check could save a life.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, highlighted the risks on regional roads. “Our regional areas offer some of the most scenic routes for motorcyclists, but they also come with unique hazards,” she said. “Nearly two-thirds of all motorcycle fatalities in the past decade occurred on regional roads. Every death is a tragedy, but it’s especially heartbreaking when it’s a young person with their whole life ahead of them. Motorcyclists need to remain vigilant, adhere to speed limits, and be mindful of road conditions. Other road users must also do their part by checking blind spots and being aware of motorcycles. Together, we can ensure everyone reaches their destination safely.”

Vinnie Bee, Chairman of the Motorcycle Council of NSW, emphasised the shared responsibility of all road users. “Safety starts with each of us,” he said. “Taking a few extra seconds to look for motorcycles when you’re driving can make all the difference. Behind every rider is someone’s loved one—a parent, a sibling, a friend. Please stay attentive, look twice, and help save lives.”

Key Safety Reminders for Motorcyclists and Drivers:

  • For Riders:
    • Always wear approved helmets and protective gear.
    • Stay within speed limits and adapt to road conditions.
    • Be cautious of curves, steep hills, and potential hazards.
  • For Drivers:
    • Double-check blind spots and mirrors for motorcycles.
    • Give motorcyclists ample space on the road.
    • Follow all road rules and remain attentive at all times.

By embracing these practices, both riders and drivers can contribute to reducing the road toll and making NSW roads safer for everyone.

The Minns Labor Government has introduced a series of road safety measures to combat the rising toll:

  • Enforcing seatbelt compliance using the existing mobile phone camera detection network.
  • Closing a loophole requiring all motorists on foreign licences to switch to a NSW licence within six months.
  • Implementing a demerit return trial that rewarded over 1.2 million drivers for maintaining a clean driving record during the initial 12-month period up to 16 January 2024.
  • Doubling the number of roadside enforcement sites for mobile speed cameras by adding 2,700 new locations, while keeping enforcement hours consistent.
  • Hosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum featuring international and local experts.
  • Signing a National Road Safety Data Agreement with the Commonwealth.

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Written by: Newy Staff


Newy 87.8 FM is an FM radio station established in 2014 targeting Classic Hits music enthusiasts across Newcastle and The Central Coast, Australia. The station plays 60s 70s and 80s music. The station can be streamed online via this website or smart phone apps such as Tunein. In 2024 we opened a local newsroom dedicated to publishing Newcastle News.