The community is encouraged to get involved in an important road safety campaign that is being launched by MidCoast Council today (Monday, October 19) in line with October being Motorcycle Awareness Month.
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The Joe Rider motorcycle awareness campaign was originally developed by the Motorcycle Riders Association of the ACT and is now in its 13th year. 2020 is the first year the project has been rolled out across the Hunter Region with six Gloucester Ulysses Club members helping out during the week long campaign.
Members of the public can win prizes and help keep motorcyclists safe by spotting the riders with the bright yellow 'Joe Rider' vests on between Monday October 19 to Friday October 23.
Once you have pulled over, register the sighting on MidCoast Council's website at www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Part-of-your-every-day/Council-Projects/Road-Safety. There are $50 #ShopMidCoast vouchers available daily and a grand prize of a $250 #ShopMidCoast voucher at the end of the week.
Council's Road Safety Officer, Chris Dimarco said it's always important to look out for motorcyclists.
"Motorcycle riders are more exposed than other vehicles. If they are involved in a crash they risk serious injury or death. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles - which makes them more easily overlooked by other road users, particularly at roundabouts and intersections," Chris explained.
"Joe Rider is about encouraging drivers to 'Look out' for motorcyclists. The intention is to reduce the incidence of SMIDSY 'Sorry mate I didn't see you', that many riders have experienced.
"Develop some new habits this October, check your blindspots, your mirrors, be cautious at intersection and help motorcyclists Ride to Live."
Road Safety Officers from MidCoast, Singleton, Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook, Port Stephens, Maitland and Cessnock Councils have teamed up to develop the project that is supported by Transport for NSW.