Suffolk Police are calling on all road users to share the road responsibly to reduce the number of collisions involving those on bicycles and motorcycles. This follows the start of a two-week national campaign today Monday 2 June, led by the National Police Chiefs' Council, which aims to improve road safety for those on two wheels. Whilst motorcyclists make up only 1% of the motoring population, they account for almost one in five fatal collisions (19%). This makes them one of the most vulnerable road users, alongside cyclists. The roads policing team will be conducting various operations throughout the next two weeks and beyond, all aimed at educating motorists and improving rider and driver behaviour. The campaign encompasses all of those travelling on two wheels, including e-scooters and electric bikes. The public have raised concerns about how these vehicles are ridden, specifically in busy town centres. Our officers will be working to address unsafe riding, anti-social behaviour and illegal modifications. They will be stopping suspected illegally modified pedal cycles and e-scooters being ridden inappropriately. You can find out more about the rules and regulations regarding their use here. Key changes were made to the Highway Code in 2022 to improve the safety of vulnerable road users and pedestrians. This includes giving cyclists at least 1.5m of space when overtaking, riding in the centre of the road and the ability to ride two abreast as it can be safer to do so. You should familiarise yourself with these updated rules. You can view them here. Chief Inspector Vicky McParland, of the Roads and Armed Policing Team, said: “We have a collective responsibility, as road users, to look after one another. Motorcyclists and cyclists are significantly over-represented in our collision data so it is important that we raise awareness of how motorists can help to keep them safe. Educating riders of the dangers of the incorrect personal protective equipment and reducing the knowledge and skill gap all helps to contribute to a safer road network for all.” Tim Passmore, Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “It is a very sad fact that those on motorcycles are much more likely to be injured on the road than a driver – which is a sobering thought and something all road users need to be aware of. Road safety is the responsibility of every one of us whether we are on four wheels, two wheels or on foot – we really do need to look out for each other. I fully support this campaign and hope increased awareness of the dangers that motorcyclists and cyclists face when they are out on two wheels on our roads, has an impact on road safety in the county. I am pleased this includes addressing unsafe riding and anti-social behaviour as this comes up regularly when I speak to people particularly worried about cycling in pedestrian areas." Around 25% of fatal collisions involving motorcycles do not involve another vehicle. This indicates that factors such as speeding, careless and dangerous riding or poor manoeuvring could be a contributing cause. Motorcyclists are encouraged to take up the opportunity to improve their riding skills by attending a Bike Safe course. More details about the course can be found here.