A second look could save a life - motorists urged to look again for bikers

Wiltshire Police are urging motorists to take a second look for motorcyclists when using the county's roads.

Since the beginning of 2026, there have been 12 fatal collisions on Wiltshire's roads, with motorcyclists disproportionately represented among those killed or seriously injured. In the 12 months to June 2025, 63% of fatalities on Wiltshire’s roads were motorcyclists.

Officers will be attending the Calne Bike Meet on Saturday, 25 July to engage with the biking community, offer guidance, listen to concerns and share recommendations for some of Wiltshire’s best riding routes.

Figures from the Department for Transport show that around seven in 10 motorcycle fatalities occur on rural roads, where higher speeds, bends, junctions and poor surfaces can combine to increase risk. This makes counties such as Wiltshire particularly vulnerable.

Inspector Neil Duffin from the Roads Policing Unit said: "We are currently seeing an increase in the number of competent drivers just not seeing the motorcyclist.

"Since the beginning of this year there have been 58 serious collisions involving motorcyclists and sadly, three fatalities. We are urging both motorcyclists and other drivers to take time to look again.

"Even if you are in a rush, the extra couple of seconds to look again could save lives, theirs and yours. We want to make sure that everyone returns home to their loved ones."

Key messages for drivers this summer:

Look twice – and expect to see motorcyclists
Motorcycles are smaller and easier to miss, especially at junctions or when checking mirrors. Take extra time at roundabouts, crossings and when pulling out or turning right. A second glance can be the difference between a safe journey and a life-changing collision.

Give motorcyclists space
Allow greater following distances and plenty of room when overtaking. Sudden manoeuvres, tailgating or cutting across a rider's path leave them with far fewer options to react, particularly where road surfaces are damaged.

Be patient on rural roads
Country lanes often have limited visibility, concealed junctions and poor surfaces. Motorcyclists may need to adjust their position or speed to avoid potholes, gravel or standing water. Avoid pressuring riders and be prepared for slower or altered lines through bends.

Check before changing lanes or turning
Many serious collisions happen when a driver changes direction without seeing a motorcyclist. Use mirrors thoroughly, check blind spots, and signal clearly and in good time.

Safer roads depend on everyone doing their part. All road users have a responsibility to look out for each other.

Inspector Duffin has shared some key advice for riders: "We know 'ride to the conditions' sounds obvious. However, after a very wet winter, road quality is particularly poor in many areas. Potholes, loose gravel, surface breaks and standing water all pose additional risks for motorcyclists.

"Summer is a great time to ride, with sunnier skies, quieter rural lanes and the simple joy of being on two wheels. With a little preparation, a skills refresh and greater awareness of potential hazards, riders can make the most of the warmer months and return home safely after every journey."

Police say that upskilling is a great way to return to riding with confidence.

• Bike Safe workshops, run by Wiltshire Police, take place regularly, with the next course at the end of August: Wiltshire Police - BikeSafe
• Biker Down is a free first-aid and road-awareness course run nationwide by fire and rescue services, police and partner organisations: (20+) Biker Down Wiltshire | Facebook