Filenews 13 May 2021 - by Michalis Hatzivasilis
The Road Safety Council decided to subsidise the purchase of protective equipment, i.e. helmet and airbag jacket, for all new motorcyclists immediately after obtaining a driver's licence for large-scale engines.
This was decided yesterday at the Road Safety Council, which met on an emergency basis because of the many motorcyclists killed this year on the asphalt. Transport Ministers Yannis Karousos, Justice Emily Yolitis and the leaders of organised motorcyclists discussed the issue after ongoing road accidents with motorcycle victims.
As Mr Karousos said, the decision will be implemented within the next four months and a budget will be secured by the Ministry of Transport. At the same time, the Department of Road Transport will include in the training process of car drivers and in the examination process for the acquisition of a driver's license a special chapter concerning the protection of motorcyclists and cyclists.
Following the meeting, Mr Karusos also announced two legislative amendments in relation to the renewal of the student driver's licence for a time limit until a normal motorcycle licence is obtained. Also, professional motorcycle drivers will not be able to use their student licence, but will have to hold a regular licence. Mrs Yoliti said that unfortunately in recent times we have had an increased number of road collisions with motorcyclists. From January '21 until today we have had eight driver deaths, six motorcyclists, while last year in the corresponding period we had 13 dead, one motorcyclist.
Addressing motorcyclists, who are one of the most vulnerable groups on the road network, he recommended that they drive with particular caution. "It's not the speed, it's the return home to those who are waiting for us," he concluded.
