Motorcycle safety study aims to get full picture

The safety of motorcyclists is the focus of a comprehensive investigation into factors contributing to crashes, with the study being conducted by a team of scientists and investigators from Monash University's Accident Research Centre (MUARC).

The study by the Victorian university is comparing the experiences of riders injured in crashes at specific sites with riders who have travelled through the same site safely. Factors being investigated include travel speed, rider profile, the behaviour of other road users and the physical environment.

“We know that speed is a factor that determines the severity of a crash, but we have less information about the role that it plays in causing a crash, particularly whether there is any interaction between travel speed and other factors, like rider experience, and crash causation,” said Dr Lesley Day, who is heading up the study.

“We also know that motorcycle riders are a vulnerable group for injury and, given an increase in the number of motorcycle riders it is important to conduct this study into contemporary risk factors within the Victorian context and the contributions these factors make to crashes.”

Injured riders admitted to hospitals in Victoria are being directly approached by researchers. To select a control rider, MUARC researchers are photographing number plates and recording the speed of riders passing safely through the site. VicRoads is then contacting riders directly to invite them to participate. Speed data is not being provided to VicRoads or used for any enforcement activity.

Consenting riders are being asked about travel speed, their riding experiences and habits, and the behaviour of other road users. In addition, injured riders are being asked about any other factors that may have contributed to the crash. Experienced and active riders have contributed to the questionnaire design to ensure relevance and improve study outcomes.

“The study aims to provide evidence-based information to riders and the wider community and to help road safety organisations make better decisions.  Ultimately, the study is about helping to improve rider safety and reducing the number and seriousness of motorcycle crashes,” Dr Day said.

Recruitment of injured riders commenced at the Alfred Hospital in January, 2012. The recruitment rate improved as more hospitals became active, but remained below initial predictions. Because of that, the recruitment has been extended until August, 2014.

Of the riders eligible (ie those injured), 214 case riders have been recruited, while 421 control riders are now in the system.

Hitherto, about 60 per cent of cases investigated have involved another vehicle, with MUARC currently investigating the feasibility of gaining information from the other road users for multi-vehicle crashes.

The study is being funded by the Australian Research Council, VicRoads, Victoria Police, TAC, Department of Justice, and VACC. Results are expected towards in 2015.