Motorcycle claims solicitors – Winter Dangers to Riders
Winter brings a sharp increase in road dangers for motorcyclists and cyclists across the UK. Shorter days, poor visibility and unpredictable road conditions combine to create a perfect storm for serious accidents. For those on two wheels, even a minor hazard can have devastating consequences.
Each year, injury statistics show a rise in serious collisions involving cyclists and motorbike riders during colder months, many of which are entirely preventable.
Why winter is particularly dangerous for two wheel users. We have provided further guidance in previously, please click on the following links:
- Winter Motorbike Riding: Snow and Ice – The Essential Tips to Stay Safe on the Road — Practical winter riding safety advice from a specialist motorcycle claims resource.
- Travelling Safely in Winter — Tips on winter travel and bike preparation to minimise risk on icy, wet roads.
- Motorcycle Tyre Safety: Understanding Tread Depth and Maintenance — Guidance on tyre care and legal tread requirements, essential for safe winter riding.
Motorbikes and bicycles offer little physical protection. In winter, this vulnerability is amplified by road and environmental conditions.
Common winter hazards include:
- Ice and black ice, especially on bends, bridges and shaded roads
- Wet leaves and debris causing sudden loss of traction
- Reduced daylight and poor visibility in rain, fog and low sun
- Cold tyres and brakes taking longer to perform effectively
- Potholes and surface defects that worsen during freeze and thaw cycles
According to
National Highways winter driving advice,
ice can form even when temperatures are above freezing, particularly overnight and early morning, catching riders out unexpectedly.
Motorcyclists and winter riding risks
Motorcyclists face unique challenges in winter. Tyres rely on heat to grip the road, and cold conditions significantly reduce traction, especially during the first few miles of a journey.
Guidance from
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents
highlights loss of control, reduced stopping distances and visibility issues as key contributors to serious motorbike injuries during colder months.
Even experienced riders can be caught out by sudden changes in surface conditions.
Cycling accidents increase during winter months
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable in winter due to reduced visibility and driver inattention. Early darkness means many collisions occur during commuting hours, when roads are busy and lighting conditions are poor.
Advice published by
explains how winter conditions increase the risk of junction collisions, close passes and dooring incidents, particularly where drivers fail to spot cyclists in low light or wet weather.
Driver responsibility does not disappear in bad weather
Poor weather is not an excuse for dangerous driving. Motorists are required to adjust their speed, braking distances and observation to suit road conditions.
The
makes clear that drivers must take extra care around vulnerable road users, including cyclists and motorcyclists, especially in adverse conditions.
Failure to do so can result in legal liability where an accident occurs.