The number of accidents involving motorcyclists has increased significantly in the Pilsen region

The numbers published by the police are chilling. In recent weeks, the police have noticed an increase in traffic accidents involving motorcyclists.

With the early arrival of favorable weather this year, there was also an earlier start to the motorcycle season. With this, a higher participation of motorcyclists in road traffic and also their accident rate were recorded.

“Last year, in the Pilsen region, we recorded 255 accidents involving motorcyclists, where the most common causes of accidents were excessive speed, incorrect overtaking, failure to give way, incorrect driving style and driving under the influence of alcohol.” said a police spokesperson.

From the beginning of this year to the end of April, a total of 1,497 traffic accidents occurred in the Pilsen Region, of which 45 involved motorcyclists.

Compared to 2023 for the same period, there was an increase of 21 accidents (9.45 percent).

“In these motorcyclist traffic accidents, there were 2 deaths, 3 serious injuries and 40 light injuries, which were 20 more than last year (8 percent). In two cases, alcohol was involved in the accident, and 27 accidents happened in the village.” the spokesman said.

Therefore, the police have published several recommendations for all motorcyclists and especially beginners:

• Regularly check the technical condition of the motorcycle and related equipment, as even a small oversight can cause a serious traffic accident.
• Make sure you follow the rules of the road and the principles of safe driving – observe the permitted speed, keep a safe distance, adapt your driving to the road condition, when you need to pay attention to potholes created during the winter, remnants of inert sprinkles and leaves.
• Furthermore, the police recommend monitoring weather conditions and their changes, especially in the morning and early evening hours, when there are drastic temperature fluctuations. With large temperature changes, the road surface can be unexpectedly slippery.
• Use special motorcycle gear, especially a protective helmet that must be properly fitted, as well as a protective suit, gloves, joint and spine protectors and suitable footwear.
• Always ride a motorcycle when you are not under the influence of alcohol or other addictive substances and keep in mind that there is zero tolerance for blood alcohol levels in the Czech Republic.
• Don’t think only of yourself. Be considerate of other road users in such a way that you do not threaten or restrict anyone. Respect other road users and try to anticipate their actions at the same time.

In conclusion, it must be emphasized that a traffic accident on a motorcycle often has much worse consequences than an accident in a car. Remember that a person has only one health and it cannot be balanced with money.

Photo illustration HZSPK