YouTube New Tool to Reduce Biker Deaths

It is hoped YouTube videos can help reduce motorcyclist deaths on Devon's roads.

Bikers make-up 25% of deaths and serious injuries but just 1% of the traffic so a new series of videos have been produced as part of the MaxRider scheme to try and tackle the problem.

“Motorcyclists are particularly hard to reach and we need to constantly find the most effective ways of engaging with them. These short films are humorous but informative to let them know that Max Rider can help them get the most out of their riding” says Max Rider motorcycle trainer Rob Derges.

It is hoped the videos will continue on from the success of Devon County Council’s motorcycling “viral” videos, Day Out In Devon and Secret Life of Bikers, which have attracted over a quarter of a million hits on YouTube as well as appearing on biking websites and forums.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation feels positive about their impact: "These viral videos have proven extremely successful in the past and this is an excellent way to raise the profile of Max Rider. The videos are good fun and as motorcyclists pass them on it helps spread a really worthwhile safety message about bikers keeping up their skills."

The new videos go alongside coaching vodcast clips on the Max Rider website to help improve cornering, planning for junctions, overtaking and urban riding. You can find them here