Sixth sense a lifesaver for motorcycle riders

Motorcycle riders are being urged to tap into their “sixth sense” to reduce their chance of being involved in a crash during the upcoming long weekend.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the Sixth Sense motorcycle safety campaign, which first aired in 2016, was being re-run ahead of Queensland’s peak recreational riding season.

“The campaign features five-time world MotoGP winner Mick Doohan asking riders to use their sixth sense to manage their risk on the road,” Mr Bailey said.

“Motorcycle riders are one of the most vulnerable road user groups and they usually come off second-best in a crash.

“This group continues to be over-represented in the Queensland road trauma.

“It doesn’t matter if riders are experienced, or just starting out. It is essential they keep their wits about them and trust their instincts on the road.

“Even though motorcycles comprise only 5 per cent of registered vehicles, last year 50 motorcycle/moped riders and their pillions died on the state’s roads, making up 20 per cent of the road toll and 14 per cent of hospitalisations as the result of a crash.

Tragically, already this year, 16 more riders and pillions have also died on Queensland roads, again representing 20 per cent of this year’s road toll.”

Mr Bailey said when the campaign launched in 2016 it reached more than 3.6 million people through social media alone, including 52,720 comments/shares/likes and more than 1.2 million online video views.

“The Sixth Sense refers to the instinct all riders must possess to help them read the road, the conditions, the potential hazards and stay focussed and in control,” Mr Bailey said.  

“I encourage every motorcyclist to visit the Join the Drive website to help develop and hone their sixth sense to stay safe on our roads.”

Mr Doohan stars in the Sixth Sense online video tutorials, which encourage safe motorcycle riding and provide advice on road craft, cornering and braking, group riding, and returning to ride after some time off the bike.

The campaign includes a range of online resources to encourage safe motorcycle riding such as video tutorials, regional maps highlighting some of Queensland’s favourite rides, and other important safety information broken down by skill-level.  

New favourite rides for Southern region (including Toowoomba, Gympie, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, and Kilcoy) have been added to the site for this year’s campaign.

The campaign will be promoted through online and outdoor billboard advertising, as well a strong social media presence to enforce the motorcycle safety message.

View the videos, favourite rides and more at www.jointhedrive.qld.gov.au/motorcycles, and don’t forget to share with any loved ones that also love to ride.

ENDS

Media contact:      Carmel Robertson, 0439 347 875