The Art Of Motorcycle Safety Trivia Quiz

Answer: 10

Some of the most common collisions are caused when car and van drivers emerge from side roads into the paths of motorcyclists who have the right of way. For many years in the UK, television advertisements urged drivers emerging from junctions to "think once, think twice - think bike".

Answer: 30

That percentage rises to 50 at night. Motorcyclists are much more likely to be seen if they are wearing fluorescent or reflective clothing. In Great Britain, motorcyclists represent less than 1% of road traffic volume, but account for 18% of deaths and serious injuries. (Source: Department for Transport report "Tomorrow's roads: Safer for Everyone" 2006).

In the USA, Highway Safety Authority figures show that motorcyclists are three times more likely than car drivers to be involved in a fatal crash.

Answer: ECE 22-05

The older British Standard 6658 is also suitable. These are categorised as Type A (blue label) or Type B (green label) respectively. Both these are considered better that the American DOT or older European standards. Helmets without the sticker or the BSI Kitemark should not be purchased.

Answer: False

But if one is fitted, it must comply with BS 4110 ZA or YA test standards. Blacked-out visors are not legal, nor are any without the BS (British Standards) kitemark.

Answer: False

The only situation in which you should move a casualty is if there is a fire.
The advice on moving riders, of course, does not apply to medical professionals, who will make a careful assessment before moving any casualty.

Answer: Bikesafe

Bikesafe is run by various UK police services in conjunction with insurance companies and motorcycle manufacturers/retailers. The scheme offers bikers a chance to take part in a supervised 'ride out' with trained police officers. It is not a substitute for formal lessons from a qualified instructor. More information from www.bikesafe.co.uk

Answer: False

If the rider is breathing and there is no danger of choking, do not attempt to remove the helmet. Only do so if there is a danger that the rider will die without immediate resuscitation. After a collision it is vital that the rider's head and neck should remain supported until medical staff arrive and fit a surgical collar.

Answer: 1mm across three quarters of the tread

Properly inflated tyres with sufficient tread depth are a motorcyclist's best friend. The tyres are the point of contact with the road and good tyres are vital for grip and braking efficiency. This is the legal minimum, but responsible motorcyclists will change the tyres before they get so lacking in tread depth.

Answer: At all times

Using dipped headlights will make you more visible to others. Many modern motorcycles, particularly in the USA, are 'hard wired' so that the headlights come on while the engine is running. However, switching on the light does not make you 'king of the road' or absolve you of the need to take responsibility for your own actions.

Answer: A loud exhaust is not safer

Some people contend that a a noisy exhaust will help other road users know you are there, but, in fact, by the time you are close enough for a car driver to hear you, it's too late.

Of the three myths, it may seem logical that a helmet will create a pivotal force on the neck, but in fact helmets absorb the energy that causes broken necks; you will be able to stop more quickly by staying upright and trying to brake efficiently; extensive tests have shown that experienced riders stop in shorter distances with anti-lock brakes. [Source: 'Motorcycle Cruiser', 2006]