MOTORCYCLE CRASH PATTERNS FOR RIDERS AGED 17-25 IN NSW

This paper summarises the findings of the study reported to Motor Accidents Authority of NSW (MAA) in early 2002. The majority of crash-involved motorcycle riders were male with a similar proportion across all age groups and motorcycle types. By contrast, the majority of crash involved pillion passengers were female, with a higher proportion in the over 25 year old group. In general, the study found that riders aged above 25 years were at greater risk of crash involvement and more severe injury than those aged below 25- except for underage and/or unlicensed riders. Mean total claims cost was higher for riders and pillions aged over 25 years - claims cost was related to injury severity and vice versa. Unlicensed use was more common among crash involved riders aged below 25 years- about three times the rate for those aged over 25 years. Analysis of MAA claims data showed sports type motorcycles to present a high crash and injury risk to all age groups of riders- particularly riders aged below 25 years. Conclusions regarding the study findings are presented together with countermeasure recommendations. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E209619.