29.03.2023
Making ABS braking systems mandatory for all two-wheeled vehicles up to 125cc. Minimum 16 years and practical test to drive mopeds
Italy: over 10 million motorized two-wheelers
Deaths: 762 in 2021, 94% male and mostly young
The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC), based on the results of the new report on the state of motorcyclist safety in Europe, asks the European Union and the Governments of the Member States to make ABS (anti lock braking system), on all new models of two-wheeled vehicles up to 125 cc. The study reports that in the EU, in 2021, 3,891 people died in a road accident while driving a motorcycle or moped, (about 90% men). This figure is 25% lower than in the previous decade, but, in the same period, other road fatalities have decreased by a third.
Italy is a country where motorcycles are used frequently, also thanks to the favorable climate: there are more than 10 million motorized two-wheeled vehicles on our roads. In 2021, there were 695 deaths on motorcycles (-24.7% compared to 2011), in addition to 67 people on mopeds (-59.4% compared to 2011). A total of 762 people died on a motorized 2-wheel vehicle, 26% of total deaths due to a road accident; 94% male and mostly young (<29:28%).
The changes introduced in the EU in 2013 regarding the requirements for obtaining a driving licence, (progressive access to licenses which enable you to drive more powerful motorcycles), have undoubtedly contributed to reducing the number of deaths.
The minimum age in the EU – recommended – to drive a moped is 16 but, in several countries, it is still possible to do so from the age of 14, and without passing a practical test.
ETSC believes that a practical test should be mandatory (this is the case in our country), and all states should enforce the recommended minimum age of 16 or above.
“We have to pay close attention to ‘food delivery’, a growing trend – commented Jenny Carson, head of the ETSC PIN (Road Safety Performance Index) program – riders, especially men, deliver hot food in isothermal containers, under pressure for timetables, they often use poorly maintained vehicles and are distracted by the various Apps that manage orders”.
Among the various recommendations contained in the study it is also suggested that:
• Technical inspections should be mandatory for all motorcycles and mopeds, (including those to check if they have been modified to reach higher speeds). The European Commission is reviewing the rules governing vehicle inspections, the proposal is expected within this year;
• controls on the correct use of helmets should be improved, especially in countries with low levels of use (Greece and Cyprus, for example). The European Union and national governments could promote more information on the safety performance of helmets and other protective devices (such as technical jackets equipped with airbags);
• Car manufacturers should improve devices that detect the presence of motorcyclists, thanks to safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking.