Three people have died in separate motorcycle crashes over the weekend, marking a tragic start to the 2022 road toll.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
As a result, NSW Police have urged motorists to slow down and drive to the conditions.
In 2020, there was a total of 188 motorcycle fatalities nationwide.
A 47-year-old woman died after her motorcycle and an SUV collided in Mittagong, in the Southern Highlands on Sunday.
Just before 1.30pm on Sunday, emergency services were called to Old South Road after a southbound Kawasaki motorcycle and a northbound Subaru Outback collided in the northbound lane. The rider of the motorcycle died at the scene.
The 68-year-old man driving the car was not injured, he was taken to Bowral District Hospital for mandatory testing.
Meanwhile, two men have died in separate motorcycle crashes in the NSW Southern Tablelands on Saturday.
About 4.25pm on Saturday, emergency services were called to Junction Point Road, Tuena, following reports a motorcycle had crashed into safety railing.
The rider, a 57-year-old man, was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.
In a separate incident, emergency services were called to Brayton Road, Marulan, about 6.25pm, after reports a motorcycle had struck a tree.
Upon arrival, a 62-year-old man was located near the motorcycle and was unable to be revived.
The Hume Police District Commander Superintendent Paul Condon said police were urging drivers to slow down to ensure everyone reached their destination safely.
"It's a timely reminder to all drivers and pedestrians to take extra care on our roads. There should be no unnecessary distractions when getting behind the wheel or crossing the road," he said.
"Now that travel restrictions are no longer in place, more people are choosing to drive to visit family and friends in regional locations.
"For those who spent significant time in isolation last year, please make sure to drive to the conditions and look after yourselves and other motorists.
"Whenever you get behind the wheel, be mindful of your choices on the roads - make sure you're well rested and have allowed plenty of travel time to get to where you need to be without rushing.
"We want to make sure there are no more fatalities on the roads, and that responsibility begins with you."
READ ALSO:
Officers from the Hume Police District established crime scenes at both crash sites, which were examined by specialist forensic police.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crashes are underway.
Reports will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
ACT Policing advises the following for motorcycle riders and drivers.
Motorcyclists should:
- Maintain their bike and tyres
- Only wear a helmet that meets Australian Standards
- Wear suitable protective clothing
- Stick to the speed limit
- Reduce speed to suit conditions, such as fog or greasy roads
- Obey all road rules
- Ride to be seen, not in blind spots
- Give cars plenty of space - keep a three second gap and increase the gap when the road surface and conditions limit braking efficiency
- Use headlights when visibility is poor
- Brief pillion's on riding safely. Riders are responsible for their passengers safety
- Look for motorists who aren't looking, especially at intersections
- Change lanes carefully - look (head check) and indicate. Look over your shoulder and in your mirrors.
Drivers should:
- Always scan the traffic for motorcyclists, especially when changing lanes at intersections.
- Use headlights in poor visibility so motorcyclists see you.
- Check your blind spot for motorcyclists - look in mirrors and over your shoulder.
- Be aware that motorbikes can accelerate faster than cars.
- Motorcyclists have a right to take up an entire lane so overtake a them as you would any other vehicle.
- Be aware that motorcyclists may manoeuvre within their lane to avoid loose surfaces, potholes, or oil and coolant dropped by other vehicles.
- Give motorcyclists plenty of room - in good driving conditions; keep a three second gap between you and the vehicle ahead.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark canberratimes.com.au
- Download our app
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter
- Follow us on Instagram
