By Derek Schlennstedt
There is a risk element in any road travel, but arguably the most vulnerable on the roads are motorcycle riders.
Motorcyclists have been over represented in serious and fatal crashes in recent times.
To reduce these statistics, the Andrews Labor Government is boosting motorcyclist safety along 11 high-risk roads in regional Victoria as part of a package of road safety improvements.
Of the roads included, Healesville-Kinglake and Healesville-Toolangi road will be among those to receive upgrades.
As part of The Motorcycle Safety Levy, the work includes the installation of new rub-rail protective barriers, sealing driveways and roads, better surfaces, signage and roadside improvements to create a safer and more rider friendly environment.
The 10.75 million dollar investment is part of a targeted approach to reduce the number of motorcycle fatalities on Victorian roads by improving the road conditions of 11 popular roads taken by motorcyclists- three of which have been completed.
The remaining eight including Healesville-Kinglake and Healesville-Toolangi roads are expected to be finished in late 2017.
A further $2.1 million investment will also provide additional maintenance funding for 200 popular motorcycle touring routes, enabling targeted road surfacing works as required, mainly on approaches to corners.
Many of the roads receiving the upgrades share a history of motorcycle crashes and are known as being some of the most popular touring roads among motorcyclists.
Last year, 54 motorcyclists lost their lives on Victorian roads, up from 30 in the previous year.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donellan said it was a step in the right direction to keep motorcyclists safe.
“We know motorcyclists are over-represented in serious and fatal crashes, and that’s why we’re identifying the routes riders use, so we can make them safer.”
“Motorcyclists are extremely vulnerable in a crash, so it is absolutely critical that riders take maximum care to avoid risks, wear the appropriate riding gear, focus carefully on road conditions and stick to the speed limit.”
