Wandsworth Back Biker Safety Campaign

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A new London wide includes striking naked biker poster

Wandsworth Council is today helping launch a London-wide awareness campaign aimed at reducing the number of motorcycle and moped deaths and injuries on the capital’s roads.

The RightGear London campaign – urging riders to wear correct protective clothing – targets employers, as commuters in particular are considered at risk during the morning and evening rush hours.

Of the 4,337 recorded collisions resulting in death or injury to riders in 2010, 81 per cent occurred on weekdays, many during the hours when riders were travelling to and from work.

Councillor Russell King, cabinet member for strategic planning and transportation, said: “With more people taking to our roads on motorbikes and mopeds in a bid to beat the traffic and avoid the congestion charge, it is vital they wear adequate protective clothing.

“In backing this campaign, we hope that potentially life-saving advice will reach bikers in Wandsworth and across the capital, and help reduce the number of motorcycle and moped casualties on our roads.”

The new campaign builds on the RightGear London initiative, which was launched in 2006 by a group of seven boroughs. It continues to focus on reducing rider casualties by encouraging bikers to wear the correct protective clothing. 

The campaign provides employers with free marketing information and support material, including posters and a quarterly ‘Roadzine’ for distribution amongst their employees. Materials will feature a striking naked rider image, to drive home the vulnerability of riders who do not wear the right gear.

Wandsworth is one of 18 London boroughs backing the campaign, which launches today – Monday, October 31.

November 2, 2011