Taking an additional motorcycle awareness course can help riders reduce their insurance premiums, as well as increase personal safety, an industry expert has said.
Motorbikes Insurance have a reputation for being dangerous and are disproportionately involved in fatal and serious injury crashes when compared to cars and pedal cyclists.
Ian Crowder, public relations manager at AA Insurance said that his organisation had seen a jump in the number of accidents involving motorbikes in recent years.
However, he stated that additional training would not only lower risks, but also insurance premiums.
"You can reduce the risk of having an accident by taking a motorcycle awareness course and taking such courses can reduce your insurance premiums," Mr Crowder pointed out.
Premiums are set according to age, postcode, the type of vehicle and the driver''s experience.
Some local councils offer free courses for younger bikers and advanced training is available from various motorcycle organisations.
Mr Crowder continued: "A bit of caution about the dangers of motorcycling is no bad thing because it enhances your awareness on the road and it will help you to be a little more alert to the fact that you might not be seen immediately by other vehicles.
"Provided you take proper precautions and you are observant then there is no reason why you shouldn''t enjoy motorcycling."
In September 2008 the standard motorcycle test will be updated to include new exercises that comply with EU standards.
