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Motorbike safety

Motorbikes and scooters are becoming more popular on our roads. While motorcyclists are just one per cent of total road traffic, they account for 16 per cent of all road user deaths. Motorcyclists are most likely to crash through ‘loss of control’ and also most likely to be the victim of someone else i.e drivers failing to look. Tower Hamlets is committed to reducing the number of motorcyclists and scooter riders killed and injured in the borough.

Cycling and young people

Scooters and mopeds are very popular with young teenagers as an affordable means of independent transport. Unfortunately, young riders rank amongst the highest in the nation’s road crash statistics. If you are 16 and want to ride a moped or scooter on the road you must complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course to validate your provisional license. For more information visit this website.

Safety tips

Assume drivers can't see you. Ride as though you and your machine are totally invisible to drivers.

  • Always wear protective clothing. The right protective clothing may minimize the extent of your injuries in a crash.
  • Be an island. Leave plenty of space in front, behind and to the sides of other vehicles.
  • Take extra care when approaching a bend - a parked car or patch of sand may be just around the corner.
  • Take advanced rider training to improve the way you ride.
  • Don't give in to road rage. Calm down, slow down and collect your thoughts before continuing with your ride.
  • If someone is tailgating you, pull over and let them pass.
  • Anticipate potentially troublesome situations like junctions - and know what to do when you see them.
  • Be aware of motorists turning right in front of you - this is the leading cause of death among motorcyclists. 
  • Don't tailgate the vehicle in front of you - if they brake suddenly you will run out of time.
  • Maintain your vehicle. Regular maintenance will help keep your machine safe and roadworthy.

£200 incentive

The Zero Emissions Network (ZEN) is offering delivery riders and businesses a £200 incentive to switch from petrol mopeds to e-bikes. Visit the Zero Emissions Network page for more information.