Dorset Council has launched a summer road safety campaign, warning drivers and motorcyclists to take extra care as the busy “biker season” begins.
The local authority explained warmer weather and longer daylight hours mean more motorcyclists are returning to the roads. Popular rural and coastal routes across the county are expected to become much busier in the coming months.
Officials have now urged all road users to stay alert and look out for each other, as the number of motorcycles increases.
New warning signs have now been put up on some of Dorset’s most dangerous roads. These include the Coast Road near Chickerell and West Bay, where there have been previous accidents involving motorcyclists.
The signs are designed to remind both drivers and riders to slow down and pay attention, especially as traffic levels rise during the summer.
The council stated better weather often leads to more people taking to two wheels, which can increase the risk of collisions if road users are not careful.
Authorities are now asking everyone to adjust their driving or riding to suit the conditions, particularly on busy or winding roads where visibility can be limited.
Research showed spring is one of the most dangerous times of year for motorcyclists. Serious injuries and deaths tend to increase as riders return to the roads after the winter.
Drivers have been urged to take extra care during the summer months
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GETTY/DORSET COUNCIL
There are several reasons for this. Riders may be out of practice after months of not using their bikes, meaning their skills may not be as sharp. At the same time, drivers may not be used to seeing motorcycles on the roads again after winter.
The council believed this combination could make the early months of the riding season especially risky.
Councillor Jon Andrews, Cabinet Member for Place Services at Dorset Council, said: “As we move into the warmer months, we know that more people will be enjoying Dorset’s roads on motorcycles.
“These warning signs are a simple but effective reminder for everyone to stay alert, slow down and look out for one another.”
Drivers in rural areas are particularly at risk of road fatalities | GETTY
Mr Andrews stressed safety is a shared responsibility and “increased awareness at the right time of year can help prevent collisions and save lives”.
The council hopes putting clear warnings in high-risk areas will encourage safer behaviour from both drivers and riders.
The campaign is part of a wider effort involving Dorset Council, Dorset Police and other local road safety groups. Together, they are working to reduce serious and life-changing injuries on the county’s roads.
Police will also carry out targeted enforcement during the summer. This will focus on speeding, dangerous overtaking and reckless behaviour by both drivers and motorcyclists.
Drivers have been urged to take extra care when travelling near motorcyclists
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GETTYThe new signage also supports the council‘s long-term Vision Zero plan. This strategy aims to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on Dorset’s roads.
As part of this goal, the council is aiming to cut fatalities and serious injuries by 65 per cent by 2035. Residents and visitors are being reminded that their actions behind the wheel or on a bike can make a real difference.
By slowing down, staying alert and showing consideration for others, the council says lives can be saved during the busy summer months.