DoE warn bikers on eve of Ulster Grand Prix

The Department of Environment (DoE) has warned that "speed is for the race track, not for open roads" as hundreds of bikers travel to this weekend's Ulster Grand Prix in Dundrod.

With almost three times as many motorcyclists having lost their lives on the roads in Northern Ireland this year than during the corresponding period in 2001, the DoE's Chief Road Safety Education Officer, Harry Green is concerned that further casualties could occur given the number of bike enthusiasts travelling to this weekends competition.

He said: “Bikers who travel at more than 20 mph above the speed limit do so in blatant defiance of the law and display total disregard for their own safety and the safety of other road users. Such behaviour is irresponsible and reckless.

“But bikers are not immortal – in fact they are one of the most vulnerable road user groups. This is clearly demonstrated by the fact that already this year 16 bikers have been killed on our roads.

“This weekend, hundreds of bikers will travel to Dundrod, to the Ulster Grand Prix, to see road racing at its best. But speed is for the race track, not for open roads. If you are not a competitor don’t pretend to be one."

A recent survey carried out by DoE found that one in five motorcyclists reckon that they can exceed the speed limit by more than 20mph and still feel in control of their own safety.

Sixteen motorcyclists have been killed on Northern Ireland’s roads this year. This compares to 12 during the same period last year and 6 during the same period in 2001.

There are approximately 18,000 motorcycles, scooters and mopeds licensed in Northern Ireland.

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