Tayside Police warn road users to be on alert

Feb 23 2010 Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

A RISE in motorcycle use on roads damaged by the ‘big freeze’ could be an accident waiting to happen, traffic cops warned yesterday.

“The recent harsh weather conditions have resulted in increased wear and tear on road surfaces, resulting in potholes and cracks, which are an added hazard to motorcyclists,” Sergeant Kerry MacLeod told the PA.

“Additionally, a lot of the grit that has been spread on roads remains and that will increase the possibility of motorcyclists losing traction and skidding.”

Sgt MacLeod, of Tayside’s road policing unit, said officers had noticed more motorcycles than usual on the roads, possibly because of recession-hit commuters sourcing cheaper transport.

He said the increase was prominent in built-up areas and warned riders – especially novices – to exercise extreme caution due to wet, greasy surfaces and prevalent ice.

“Motorists should also give consideration to motorcyclists and keep a look-out for their presence, and most importantly, be aware that motorcyclists may have to execute wider manoeuvres to avoid road damage,” he said.

Sgt MacLeod said another danger factor at this time of year was poor visibility due to low sun in mornings and late afternoon, which could prove challenging, even if wearing sunglasses.

Motorcyclists should wear high-visibility clothing and ride with a dipped-beam headlight during daytime to increase the chances of being seen by other road users.

Sergeant MacLeod said his team had also observed a disturbing number of motorists driving vehicles before properly clearing windscreens of frost and ice – an illegal practice.

“All too commonly, we’re seeing vehicles creeping along with only a small patch in front of the driver cleared,” he said.

“This is extremely dangerous as the driver cannot be aware of anything occurring around the vehicle, such as other cars approaching from the left or right at junctions, or the presence of cyclists or pedestrians.

“In addition to the obvious road safety implications, which could have disastrous consequences, motorists found driving their vehicles in this condition can find themselves issued with a fixed penalty ticket, which carries a £60 fine and three driving licence penalty points.”

He added that motorists should resist the temptation to leave their vehicles unattended with engines running when defrosting glass as opportunistic thieves might pounce.