A Motorcycle Safety and Transport Policy Framework
Summary
This document has clearly evidenced the position of motorcyclists as the most vulnerable of road users and one which would greatly benefit from increased levels of investment in infrastructure. Many opportunities for motorcycle safety improvements exist and appropriate levels of investment will tap into an area that is ripe for improvement. Government’s view towards motorcycling is changing and this framework will build upon a more progressive attitude and will work to create an environment which considers motorcycling as a solution to many modern day transport issues.
This action is closely linked to, and will benefit directly from the work being undertaken in Theme 3 ‘Motorcycles as a Practical Solution’. Whilst clear links can be seen between the two, this action focusses on the delivery of key infrastructure and its success will be measured in financial terms, ie. securing funding for the provision of motorcycle safe infrastructure.
Description
The inclusion of Highways England in this framework, as a government owned private company, represents a previously unseen level of government buy-in to this concept. Highways England’s commitment towards casualty reduction is well documented within this framework. The Government and Highways England are now looking to 2020 and beyond, and improvements to the strategic road network through the Roads Investment Strategy (https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/408514/risfor-2015-16-road-period-web-version.pdf). It will be necessary to ensure that budget holders and decision makers are aware of the contribution that motorcycle safety can make towards casualty reduction performance indicators and the Highways England vision that ‘no one should be harmed when travelling or working on the Strategic Road Network’.
Next Steps
- Work within Highways England to educate key decision makers on the benefits of investing in motorcycle safety and the potential contribution that a reduction in motorcycle casualties will make towards overall casualty reduction targets.
- Identify actions within the Health and Safety Plan that link to motorcycle safe infrastructure and establish links with the partnership that can work together and complement these aims.
- Work with the government to ensure that their commitments in the British Road Safety Statement are delivered.
Progress
UPDATE – Action 26 – To Promote and Stimulate an Appropriate Level of Investment in Safer Infrastructure for Motorcyclists, Delivering a Safer, More Sustainable Experience for Customers
This is a new addition to the framework.
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