According to research conducted by the UK's biggest insurer the period between May 23th and 25th has been identified as the most dangerous time of the year for
motorcyclists. Recent claims data reveals that there is a staggering 50 per cent increase in motorcycle accidents at or around this time of the year - which is the May ending Bank Holiday period - making this day the single biggest day for claims.
As the weather gets warmer and enthusiasts get to riding on their motorbikes for their first ride of the year, the UK's biggest insurance provider, Aviva, is warning both the nation's estimated 1.2 million motorcyclists as well as other motorists, to be extra vigilant. Britain is now heading into the most statistically dangerous part of the year for motorbike accidents caused by motorists.
More bikes on the roads
Nigel Bartram the senior motor underwriting manager at Norwich Union, said: "As bike fans are keen to get back on the road after a long winter, our claims data shows that accidents are more likely to happen at this time of year. We are urging motorcyclists to be more careful, but equally want to make drivers more aware of the increase in motorbikes that will be filling the roads."
Mr Bartram also added that: "Checking for blind spots, being aware of bikes overtaking or undertaking and being extra careful when opening doors and pulling out, are just some of the simple steps that drivers can take."
Norwich Union also attributes the large increase in claims to the warm weather which encourages more 'weekend riders' onto the roads, but also to the glare of bright sunshine, leading to more accidents than there are on rainy days. On the brightest and hottest summer days Norwich Union says that it sees a 50 per cent increase in motor claims, compared to an average day.
In addition an increasing number of people appear to be taking out bike insurance policies and heading out onto Britain's roads on two wheels instead of four, new research has claimed. According to a new study, the number of Britons that are choosing to get in the saddle instead of behind the wheel has surged by almost a quarter this year.
Two wheels instead of four
More people are being attracted to taking out insurance policies for their motorbikes and heading out on two wheels because of the credit crunch, according to the Post Office, which undertook the research.
Richard Pennant-Jones the head of general
insurance at the Post Office said: "At a time when many people are stretched financially, switching from four wheels to two is one way to save money."
He continued: "Using mopeds or motorcycles over the spring and summer can help reduce day-to-day transport and running costs, including [
motorbike insurance] which could be significantly cheaper for motorcycles and mopeds than
cars."
The UK car industry has suffered a sharp decline in sales over the past year, as the recession has forced many motorists to downgrade their vehicles from large cars to smaller ones, while others have simply chosen to keep their existing vehicle.
Taking out bike insurance and buying a motorbike instead of a new car looks set to offer motorists some relief from the high costs of running a vehicle during the recession.
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