Australian traffic authorities are warning learner motorcyclists to stay mindful of licensing limitations as new enforcement measures focus on the dangers of carrying passengers. Under the law, learner riders are prohibited from having pillion passengers and those who ignore this restriction risk a $330 fine and a loss of demerit points.
The Reason Behind the Ban
The restriction is in place to aid novice riders who may not yet possess the skill to balance themselves and a pillion passenger. It is said that learner riders are more likely to crash for lack of experience and controlling a motorcycle with passengers is more difficult.
Risks for Passengers and Riders
Riding with a novice motorcyclist is a risk not only for the rider but also the pillion passenger. Losing control, albeit slightly, can prove fatal; as a result, the authorities claim the regulation is vital. Road safety experts assert that learner riders need to concentrate on the road and motorcycle control, without the extra burden of protecting a passenger.
Penalties and Consequences
Learner riders who are caught carrying passengers are likely to face an on the spot payment of $330. In addition to the monetary fine, demerit points are also allocated, the accumulation of which can result in the quick suspension or cancellation of a learner permit. Enforcement officers are clear that repeat offenders stand to lose the opportunity to transit to a provisional motorcycle licence.
This Rule in Other States
This rule applies uniformly to the other states and territories of Australia, which are New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia. Officers in highway patrol units routinely cover the more frequented motorcycle routes, while compliance officers do spot checks to discourage the activity. This is part of wider initiatives aimed at lower the number of motorcycle deaths in Australia which is still disproportionately high in the national road toll.
Words of Caution for New Riders
Any new motorcyclist for whom the learner period is a vital stage in all bike riding skills, is being urged to do so by the relevant transport authorities, and to aim to do so without any form of time compression. Riders are encouraged to take the time to do proper solo riding, practice in a controlled environment, and undertake the legally mandated minimum training hours to enable the rider to sit for the rider’s test in the provisional stage, from which the rider may, at that level, legally have a passenger.
Promotion of Road Safety as a Collective Responsibility
There is a growing awareness reclaiming the principle that road rules are in place to mitigate the chance of collisions. Rider learners, who comply with the law, greatly reduce the risks to themselves and their passengers as well as enhance safety for other road users. As fines as well as demerits continue to be earned within rigid enforcement, the point is equally clear, learner riders will not under any circumstances be allowed to carry passengers.