Motorcycle courses to upskill riders
In response to appalling accident statistics, and after being approached by several riders and concerned parents, TDC road safety co-ordinator Krista Hobday is organising a motorcycle-training course to address safety issues for Golden Bay riders of all ages and levels of experience.
"These courses have become extremely popular in Nelson with courses now booked out well in advance of course dates.
"Trainers from Wellington's Roadsafe Motorcycle Riding Techniques will be taking the course on Friday 21 November. This will be a whole-day course and will aim to improve the rider's confidence and give tips, advice on emergency braking, cornering and hazard avoidance. The course is divided into theory and practical sessions, so there is plenty of opportunity for riders to practise the skills they have learnt. It will be an ideal course for those students who own motorbikes and will be spending some time on these during the fast-approaching Christmas holidays."
In the Tasman District between 2002 and 2007, motorcyclists made up eight per cent of both road injuries and fatalities. Seventy-five per cent of crashes occurred on rural roads, with almost one third at intersections. Motorcycle crashes are increasing, and the number of injuries in 2007 was the highest in any single year over the last five years, said Ms Hobday. One-fifth of the injured were aged between 15 and 19.
High school student Basti Joechle-Rings, 15, said a training course would be useful for anybody, but especially for new riders.
"When I got onto the road for the first time on my motorbike, I couldn't quite believe it. I had no previous on-road training ... it would have surely been of great benefit to have had some road safety training before getting my licence."
All participants must bring their own bike and have an appropriate licence. The courses have been discounted from the Nelson courses and will cost $30, or $10 with valid student ID or a community services card. The venue is to be advised. To register or for more information, phone 03 543 8551 or e-mail <krista.hobday@tdc.govt.nz>.
Ina Holst
