Irresponsible Action: Nearly One-Third of Motorcyclists Suffer from Debris Thrown from Vehicles Passing By
Bikers face numerous dangers on the road, and one unsettling aspect is the hostility they often encounter from drivers. A third of motorcyclists have experienced having empty soft drink cans and cigarette butts thrown at them while overtaking, according to a survey by IAM RoadSmart.
The survey of 600 motorcycle members revealed that some drivers intentionally spray windscreen washer fluid when bikers are behind them, cut them up, and even prevent them from filtering through traffic. This is despite filtering through slow-moving traffic being legal if done safely and with due care.
Two motorcyclists have shared their personal experiences of being pelted with rubbish while passing cars on the road. They also revealed encountering hostile actions from other road users, like drivers being distracted by mobile phones, cutting lanes, failing to check mirrors, and tailgating.
Nicholas Lyes, IAM RoadSmart's Policy and Standards Director, acknowledged the shocking and reckless behavior towards bikers. He emphasized that while motorcyclists should ride responsibly, they are some of the most vulnerable road users and will almost always suffer the worse in case of a collision.
Chris Palmer, an IAM RoadSmart Advanced Rider, has encountered litter being thrown at him, cigarette butts, and windscreen wash. One time, he was part of a group of four lads, who squirted windscreen wash at him intentionally and even tossed a takeaway container from their sunroof. Graham Marsden, another motorcyclist, shared similar experiences, including a driver flicking a cigarette at him and intentionally trying to prevent him from passing.
Such incidents not only pose a risk to motorcyclists but also trigger road rage, which doesn't benefit anyone. Calmness, avoiding engagement, maintaining distance, and overtaking safely when it's safe are advised for bikers who encounter such behavior.
- Motorcycle riders, such as Nicholas Lyes and Chris Palmer, have faced disturbing incidents involving litter being thrown at them, including windscreen wash, cigarette butts, and takeaway containers.
- The general-news and crime-and-justice sections have reported instances of drivers intentionally spraying windscreen washer fluid at motorcyclists and even throwing litter at them from their sunroof.
- Sadly, some motorcyclists have encountered hostile actions from drivers, like having empty soft drink cans and cigarette butts thrown at them while overtaking, as a survey by IAM RoadSmart has revealed.
- Surprisingly, sports-betting sites might find a niche market in reporting incidents of drivers recklessly behaving towards motorcyclists, as road safety awareness and the consequences of such actions could be a significant topic for discussion.
- Despite the increasing frequency of litterbugs and hostile drivers on the road, it is essential for motorcyclists to remain vigilant, adhere to traffic rules, and practice safe riding, as per the advice from IAM RoadSmart.
