A charity that puts air ambulance critical care doctors and paramedics onto response motorcycles across the UK is urging motorists to look out for motorcyclists who may be out enjoying the warmer spring weather.

DocBike said studies show that springtime is the most dangerous time for motorcycle collisions. There is usually a peak in serious injuries and fatalities being seen as motorcyclists make their way back onto the roads after the winter break. This could be because motorcyclists are a bit rusty after not riding much through winter, because other road users are not used to seeing bikes out on the roads, or most likely a combination of both.

Sunny weather is predicted for Dorset this weekend and many motorcyclists are likely to be taking to the roads for the first time this year, so DocBike is concerned that there could be a spike in motorcycle collisions.

Intensive Care Consultant with DocBike and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Dr Ian Mew, said: “The human brain isn’t designed to see small objects travelling towards it at speed, which puts motorcyclists at risk when other vehicles pull out unexpectedly in front of them at junctions. If you combine this with other road users not being used to looking out for other motorcyclists after the winter period, we can understand why this is such a dangerous time for motorcyclists.

“But it’s not just about not being seen. Last year in Dorset, more motorcyclists were killed or critically injured due to losing control or whilst overtaking a line of traffic.

“On average, over 200 motorcycle collisions occur every year in Dorset. Last year, 17 of these collisions were either very serious or fatal.”

DocBike’ has the following advice for motorists:

• If you drive, take some extra time to look out for motorcyclists and give them plenty of space, accepting that this could be the first time that they have ridden for some months
• If you are getting on your bike for the first time this year, take some time to check it over before riding it. Take it easy and accept that it will take some time before your skill level has returned to where it was at the end of last summer. Be prepared for other road users who might not be used to seeing motorcyclists out on the roads, pulling across your path – even if you have the right of way

DocBike and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance will be on duty throughout the weekend.

With everyone’s help to look out for one another on the roads, DocBike is hoping that they won’t be needed.

More information about the DocBike charity, visit: www.DocBike.org