Concerns raised over motorcyclist deaths

Posted: June 8, 2014

Posted in: Motorcycle Accidents Road Traffic Accidents Wrongful & Accidental Death 

The Dyfed-Powys Police commissioner has raised concerns over the number of motorcycle deaths that have occurred over the last year.  A recent report has highlighted a spike in the number of bikers killed in crashes across mid and south-west Wales over the last year.  A total of nine bikers have died in crashes already this year.

Commissioner Christopher Salmon believes that road users need to be more aware of motorcyclists, and that both drivers and riders need to travel with “conditions in mind”.  The most recent of the nine motorcycle deaths this year happened on Sunday when a 29-year-old woman was killed in Powys.  Melanie Lakin had been riding on the outskirts of Welshpool when she crashed and died.

‘Bike Safe’ campaign launched

Mr Salmon said that steps are already being taken to minimise these road deaths.  He said that police road patrols have been increased, assisted by their two new unmarked motorcycles.  With deaths largely involving men aged between 35 and 51 on motorbikes, the chief constable is looking at different solutions to the current problem.

In North Wales alone, a total of four motorcyclists have died in road traffic accidents this year, a figure compared to a total of five deaths in 2013. Two of the deaths this year took place during the same weekend.  North Wales has launched a “bike safe” campaign which aims to encourage riders to take better care on the roads.

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Winston Roddick said: “One fatality is one too many and we must do everything we can to avoid future tragedies.”

If you have been involved in a road traffic accident, and are looking to claim compensation, please contact us. 

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