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Letter: Letters : Don't blame bikers

Published 26 October 1996

From Peter Coleman, St George's Hospital Medical School

London

While I agree with the broad points made in your article on motorcycle
messengers, I note with some concern you neglected to state the percentage of
motorcycle accidents not caused by the motorcyclist (“Messengers of Death”,
5 October, p 14
).

Of the 48 rider deaths in 1988, how many were the fault of the rider? In the
capital, it appears that a large percentage of accidents to both couriers and
casual riders are caused by the inattention of other road users and
pedestrians.

Any legislation which makes life safer for riders is welcome, but must be
accompanied by an extensive campaign to educate other road users as well.

Issue no. 2053 published 26 October 1996

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