The police are urging all road users to be mindful of motorcycle safety after a tragic start to the year on Tasmanian roads.
Four riders and a passenger have died and 34 riders and another passenger have been seriously injured so far in 2025.
The motorcycle statistics sit among a grim overall picture where 21 people have died on Tasmania’s roads and more than 106 seriously injured this year.
The 12 fatalities in April marked the first time Tasmania has suffered double digit deaths in a month since July 2009, when 13 lives were lost.
“This is far higher than the two to three fatalities that we normally experience a month. This trend must stop – we can and must do better,” said Scott Tilyard, Chair of the Road Safety Advisory Council.
Serious casualties – those involving fatal and serious injury crashes – are both slightly down compared to the same time last year and the five-year average.
Fatal five behaviours – speeding, including driving too fast for the conditions, distraction and inattention, driving under the influence, fatigue and failing to wear a seatbelt – continue to be major contributing crash factors.
Heading into winter, Sergeant Ben Kromkamp said while all road users needed to be mindful of changing weather conditions, motorcyclists were particularly vulnerable.
“We are reminding all road users, and in particular motorcyclists, to be vigilant and prioritise safety on the roads,” Sergeant Kromkamp said.
“We’re calling on riders to protect themselves and other road users by riding responsibly, ensuring they’re licensed and their motorbike is registered and roadworthy, and by wearing appropriate safety gear. It’s for their own safety.
“We’re also asking other motorists to be mindful of motorcycles on the road as riders are vulnerable road users – it’s for everyone’s safety”.
In addition to routine high-visibility patrols, static operations and covert patrols, the community can expect to see police motorcycles out on the roads this winter.
“Our motorcycles are an integral part of the Tasmania Police fleet, with the advantage of manoeuvrability and ability to access areas that police vehicles can’t, such as narrow alleyways and tracks. They also provide a fast police response to crashes in heavy traffic,” Kromkamp said.
“And just as our officers take responsibility for both their safety and the safety of others on the road while patrolling on their motorcycles, we are urging all riders to do the same.”
Winter tips
- Ride Responsibly: Ensure your motorcycle is licensed, registered and roadworthy.
- Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: This includes a helmet, protective clothing and potentially reflective gear for increased visibility.
- Adjust Riding Behaviour: Drive to the conditions, reduce speed and maintain a safe following distance.
- Be Aware of Road Hazards: Black ice, snow and frost are common in winter, especially in highland areas.
- Use Headlights: Turn on your headlights, even during the day, to improve visibility.
- Stay Informed: Monitor road conditions and alerts, particularly during winter.
- Contact Police: Report reckless or dangerous driving to Tasmania Police 131 44.
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