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Roads Policing Message – Motorcycle safety and the BikeSafe programme

An Garda Síochána rolled out the BikeSafe programme nationally from the spring of 2023, following a successful pilot programme during 2022. This road safety initiative includes a facilitated classroom based workshop and an assessed ride led by an Advanced Garda Motorcyclist.

All motorcycle riders with a full valid motorcycle driving licence, who are fully insured, are welcome to attend the sessions. BikeSafe will benefit all riders, especially helpful for those who have recently passed their test, those getting back into riding after a break of a few years up to and including seasoned riders. The goal of BikeSafe is to allow us to share our experiences and extensive knowledge and encourage you to progress to further post-test training to help you become more skilled and assured. The rider workshops will be held across the country from spring to autumn each year. 

Advanced Garda Motorcyclists are among the safest riders on the road, and through our BikeSafe workshops, participants will receive an introduction to hazard awareness and tips for making riding safer, followed by an on-road assessment ride. The workshop is intended to assist participants in identifying and avoiding some of the most common causes of collisions by using data from recent years. The main topics of Motorcycle Road craft will be covered in the Workshop session, with a focus on placement, cornering, and overtaking. 

The ride-out will be led by a skilled Advanced Garda Motorcyclist who has successfully completed both the Standard and Advanced courses at An Garda Síochána. Participants will have the chance to receive honest feedback on their riding's strengths and potential improvement areas, held in a relaxed and constructive atmosphere. 

An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority fully embrace the goal of VISION Zero which is to end all road fatalities and serious injuries by 2050.

Road Safety Message

During the summer months there is always an increase in the number of motorcyclists on the roads. The road traffic fatalities involving motorcyclists are always disproportionately represented. Motorcyclists represent only 1.4% of the registered vehicles in Ireland. But unfortunately, this year there has been (10) motorcyclists killed, which represents (11) percent of all fatalities this year.

By their nature, motorcyclists are vulnerable to serious injury or death if involved in a road traffic collision. The majority of incidents involving motorcycles are avoidable and all too often, are simply the result of basic errors made by riders.  Statistics show that they are six times more likely to be killed on the roads than any other road users.

Our message to motorcyclists is:

  • Ease off the throttle and keep within the speed limits.
  • Make sure your motorcycle is roadworthy.
  • Make sure you wear CE approved protective clothing & helmet.
  • Read the road & ride within your capabilities.
  • Be constantly aware of your surroundings - good observation is key.
  • Adapt your riding to poor weather conditions.
  • Expect the unexpected.

Our Message to Drivers is:

  • Be vigilant at junctions. Look out for motorcycles.
  • Check your blind spots.
  • Increase your following distance behind a motorcycle.
  • Be courteous and give motorcycles space.