Protective clothing and motorcyclists in South Australia

Abstract

In November, 2010, the South Australian Motor Accident Commission launched its ‘Gear Up’ campaign to promote greater use of protective clothing by motorcyclists. Such clothing may include impact protectors and abrasion resistant materials. This study was conducted to ascertain the extent to which abrasion resistant materials would be expected to be of benefit in motorcycle crashes in urban and rural areas. A literature review and analysis of in-depth crash data revealed that crash-involved riders of motorcycles are likely to slide or tumble on the road surface, regardless of crash type or crash location (urban or rural). It was concluded that protective clothing for motorcyclists would be beneficial for all riders, whether they be urban commuters or weekend recreational riders.