Motorists urged to look again for bikers

Wiltshire Police are urging motorists to take a second look for motorcyclists when using the county's roads.

Since the beginning of 2026, there have been 12 fatal collisions on Wiltshire's roads, with motorcyclists disproportionately represented among those killed or seriously injured. 

In the 12 months to June 2025, 63% of fatalities on Wiltshire’s roads were motorcyclists.

Officers plan to attend the Calne Bike Meet on Saturday 25 July to engage with the biking community, offer guidance, listen to concerns and share recommendations for some of Wiltshire’s best riding routes.

Figures from the Department for Transport show that around seven in 10 motorcycle fatalities occur on rural roads, where higher speeds, bends, junctions and poor surfaces can combine to increase risk. This makes counties such as Wiltshire particularly vulnerable.

Inspector Neil Duffin from the Roads Policing Unit said: "We are currently seeing an increase in the number of competent drivers just not seeing the motorcyclist.

"Since the beginning of this year there have been 58 serious collisions involving motorcyclists and sadly, three fatalities. We are urging both motorcyclists and other drivers to take time to look again.

"Even if you are in a rush, the extra couple of seconds to look again could save lives, theirs and yours. We want to make sure that everyone returns home to their loved ones."

Key messages for drivers this summer are:

- Look twice – and expect to see motorcyclists.
- Motorcycles are smaller and easier to miss, especially at junctions or when checking mirrors 
- Take extra time at roundabouts, crossings and when pulling out or turning right, and second glance can be the difference between a safe journey and a life-changing collision.
- Give motorcyclists space.
- Allow greater following distances and plenty of room when overtaking - sudden manoeuvres, tailgating or cutting across a rider's path leave them with far fewer options to react, particularly where road surfaces are damaged.
- Be patient on rural roads - Country lanes often have limited visibility, concealed junctions and poor surfaces. Motorcyclists may need to adjust their position or speed to avoid potholes, gravel or standing water. Avoid pressuring riders and be prepared for slower or altered lines through bends.
- Check before changing lanes or turning. Many serious collisions happen when a driver changes direction without seeing a motorcyclist. Use mirrors thoroughly, check blind spots, and signal clearly and in good time.

The police say safer roads depend on everyone doing their part. All road users have a responsibility to look out for each other.

Inspector Duffin has shared some key advice for riders:

- Refresh your skills: your confidence will thank you.
- Whether you're returning to the roads after winter, upgrading your bike or simply wanting to improve your cornering, upskilling is a great way to return to riding with confidence.
- Bike Safe workshops, run by Wiltshire Police, take place regularly with the next course at the end of August: Wiltshire Police - BikeSafe. Details are at bikesafe.co.uk/wiltshire/
Biker Down is a free first-aid and road-awareness course run nationwide by fire and rescue services, police and partner organisations: www.facebook.com/bikerdownwiltshire/about?locale=en_GB
- Do a bike check before heading out
- If your bike has been in hibernation, or you've not ridden much recently, a quick once-over can make a world of difference.

The police recommend checking tyre pressure and tread depth, all lights and oil and fuel levels

Motorcyclists are also urged to ride to the weather and the road surface. Potholes, loose gravel, surface breaks and standing water all pose additional risks for motorcyclists.