Police Scotland superintendent Stewart Mackie's warning over motorcyclist bikers death statistics

A police officer has urged fellow motorcyclists to exercise caution on roads over the weekend as Scotland is set to enjoy warm weather.

Superintendent Stewart Mackie, a keen biker, issued the warning as it was revealed 90% of motorcyclist casualties are male.

The deputy chief of road policing said a third of those killed in motorcycle crashes are aged between 40 and 49, and a marked increase in motorbike ownership in recent months may be due to people returning to biking after many years.

He added that more than 85% of motorbike crashes occur in rural areas and can happen in the daytime and in good weather.

Superintendent Mackie added motorists “need to play their part” to keep routes safe for vulnerable road users, including cyclists and horse riders.

He said: “Being a biker myself, I know the enjoyment that is gained from being out and about on your bike. Scotland has some of the best biking roads in the world.

“However my colleagues and our road safety partners are working towards Scotland also having the best road safety performance in the world by 2030. We all need to play our part.

“We’ll launch our motorcycle safety campaign next month. This will see education, engagement and enforcement take place across Scotland throughout the spring and summer months. But I wanted to reach out to you now.

“As the good weather comes along, more motorcyclists are taking to the roads to make the most of their weekends. I would urge all bikers to think of the personal consequences of taking risks when biking.

“Equally I would remind all road users that the safety of bikers and other vulnerable road user groups depends on each and every one of us.

“Motorcycling is an excellent way to explore the country. I want riders to enjoy their free time out and about, just as I will be doing. More importantly, I want us all to get home safe.”