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This article was published on August 19th, 2020
With lockdown rules slowly being eased, it’s finally possible to head out on a motorcycle and enjoy that feeling of life on two wheels, and for some it will mean they can resume their motorcycle training.
Whether you have been riding a motorcycle for decades or your a relatively new biker, one thing is certain, when you are in the saddle you can feel like you can conquer the world.
However, one thing that can slip many riders minds, is the inherent danger that comes with being a motorcyclist.
As a motorcyclist, you are afforded a lot less protection in the event of a motorcycle accident, particularly when it comes to collisions with another vehicle.
Whilst a helmet, gloves, leathers and boots can afford a certain degree of protection, you can never be too careful when you head out for a ride.
When it comes to motorcycle training, the education and training a motorcyclist receives during the course of their pre-bike test lessons will be the last training they ever receive.
For the majority of motorcyclists who are responsible riders this can often prove to be enough, however, there are a few that believe they know best and it is these riders that can prove to be the most dangerous hazard for other road users.
We recognize that many accidents are caused that are not the fault of the motorcyclist, but having seen the impact that a motorcycle accident can have on both a rider and their loved ones, and the serious injuries that can result, we thought that we’d highlight some of the options available to riders who would like to learn more about becoming a safer motorcyclist.
Many motor vehicle drivers who take the Pass Plus course in their cars benefit from an advanced skill set and lower insurance premiums, likewise, motorcyclists who take advanced learning courses could also receive similar benefits, both when it comes to safety on the road and money in their pocket.
When it comes to advanced training, there are a multitude of options for both on and off-road training.
Whether you opt to do some extra training through a motorcycle charity, a recognised body or an approved organisation, extra training is always a good idea, even for those who have been riding a motorcycle for many years. It gives them a chance to refresh the skills they learned before passing their test and teach them about the latest rules of the road that they may not be aware of.
Below we’ve outlined some of the courses that are available to motorcyclists in the UK that may help riders reduce the risk of suffering a motorcycle accident, although it is worth noting that there are many more courses available.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents otherwise known as RoSPA is an organisation that has been campaigning for over 100 years to help change legislation surrounding motorcycle accidents.
Their Advanced Motorcycle Training programme is designed to help motorcyclists become safer riders by carrying out tests both in theoretical and practical aspects of riding a motorbike.
Based on the System of Motorcycle Control which derives from the ‘Motorcycle Roadcraft – The Police Riders Handbook’, the training features four full days of training before the Advanced Riding Test is carried out.
As well as improving your overall safety as a motorcyclist, the training also aims to help improve your anticipation skills and teach you how to deal with a variety of situations where an accident may occur.
You can learn more about the RoSPA Advanced Training course by clicking here.
IAM Roadsmart has been a registered charity since 1956. They offer 2 separate courses for motorcyclists. Their courses focus on improving road safety and enhancing rider skills for the benefit of all road users.
Both courses offer riders the opportunity to meet other like-minded riders, become better riders in a wide range of different environments and scenarios as well as becoming full IAM members once the course is completed.
Both courses are delivered by trained volunteers and consist of multiple sessions before a test is undertaken and feedback is given (the number of sessions will vary depending on which regional group you take the course with).
To learn more about the IAM Roadsmart Advanced Rider Courses 1 & 2 click here.
This scheme is backed by the Government and is carried out by the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
As part of the training, you will receive a rider assessment from an expert trainer, not dissimilar to the practical motorcycle test. The trainer will have you ride in various road traffic conditions and discuss how you would handle common motorcycling scenarios.
For most people, the initial session will last 1-2 hours. If the expert trainer deems that you have the adequate skills to ensure maximum safety whilst you use the road, you will be issued with a ‘DVSA certificate of competence’ immediately.
However, if the expert trainer believes you would benefit from further training, they will create a personalised plan of sessions for you to attend, with the aim of helping you gain the ‘DVSA certificate of competence’ at the end of the sessions.
One of the key benefits of taking part in the Enhanced Rider Scheme, as well as reducing your risk of a motorcycle accident, is the fact that those who receive a certificate will be able to get discounts with a number of motorcycle insurers.
This is perhaps one of the more personalised options when it comes to advanced motorcycle training and can cater for those looking for full day course or those looking to improve their riding in shorter increments.
You can learn about the Enhanced Rider Scheme by clicking here.
Whether you opt for one of the options we have highlighted above or you choose a different form of training, it’s important to remember, that any advanced training is better than none.
However, even if extensive advanced motorcycle training is carried out, it may not guarantee your safety.
Here at Thorneycroft, we have represented clients who have done all they can to be as safe a rider as possible, but unfortunately, someone else’s negligence has left them with both minor and catastrophic injuries.
If you have been involved in a motorbike accident or you know of someone who may benefit from our help who has been injured in a motorbike accident that wasn’t their fault, our team are here to help.
Our motorcycle injury team is made up of specialist solicitors who are experts in their field and have an excellent success rate of getting their clients the care and treatment they need to recover as well as the maximum amount of compensation for their clients.
If you would like to speak to a member of our team, you can call us for free on 0800 1979 345 or you can complete our online enquiry form and a member of the team will get back to you at a time that is more suitable for you.