Motorcycle Season Begins: Safety Advisory from Biker Association

The arrival of spring signals the start of the motorcycle season, and as riders dust off their bikes, the national biker association is urging caution on the roads. The chairman of the association highlighted that many drivers might not yet be accustomed to sharing the road with motorcyclists, which can lead to a higher incidence of accidents at the beginning of the season.

With the official opening of the season earlier this month, favorable weather forecasts are expected to bring many bikers out this weekend. However, recent reports from law enforcement have indicated an uptick in motorcycle-related accidents, prompting the association to remind riders to remain vigilant.

Preliminary statistics from the Federal Statistical Office reveal a concerning trend: during the period from January to November 2024, fatalities among motorcycle riders increased, with an additional nine deaths compared to the previous year. In 2023, there were 497 reported motorcycle-related deaths.

The association noted that nearly five million motorcycles are registered across the country, marking the highest number in history. This rise in motorcycle ownership comes with a call for increased awareness among both riders and drivers. The association's chairman emphasized the importance of mutual consideration on the roads, as both groups share responsibility for safety.

Moreover, certain roads remain off-limits to motorcyclists due to ongoing restrictions. The association has published a list of these roads on its website, advising riders to plan their routes accordingly. There has been a noticeable trend in recent years to implement road closures, often justified by noise concerns rather than safety issues. The association argues that while noise regulations are essential, they should not impede riders without clear safety reasons.

The chairman also proposed initiatives to enhance rider awareness, such as using displays or signage to remind bikers of speed limits. For those who intentionally disregard traffic laws, he called on law enforcement to take more proactive measures. He stressed the need for investment in police resources and technology to improve road safety for all users.