To remove any doubt regarding how seriously concerned the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) and the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) are regarding the use of ‘light segregation’ devices on our roads, the organisations have issued this joint statement:
“The use of light segregation devices, including ‘Armadillos’, ‘Orcas’ and ‘Mini Orcas’, on our roads raises serious safety concerns in respect to riders of Powered Two Wheelers (PTWs). Inadvertent contact with the devices can quickly destabilise any two-wheeled vehicle with the potential to throw the rider into the path of other road users.
Evidence has emerged from CCTV monitoring of a Mini-Orca scheme in the City of London that clearly shows the devices to be trip hazards; 55 pedestrians having tripped on them within the first 24 hours of installation. This scheme has now been removed.
These devices are easily damaged and broken by heavy vehicles, leaving fixing bolts exposed and protruding from the road surface, thus creating a further hazard to riders and pedestrians alike.
Visibility is easily compromised by scuff marks from contact with tyres, poor light and weather conditions, a build-up of general road grime and the presence of other road users.
Neither the BMF nor MAG wishes these devices to be fitted to our roads due to safety concerns for all Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs), not just motorcyclists. Both organisations call for an urgent review of all current and pending light segregation schemes in light of the evidence demonstrating their hazardous nature.”
The BMF and MAG are the country’s longest-running riders’ rights organisations. Over many years, both organisations have worked to fight on behalf of riders’ rights both here in the UK and abroad through FEMA.
Recognising that both MAG and the BMF want what is best for our motorcycling community, Jim Freeman, BMF Chair, and Selina Lavender, MAG Chair, met recently. They will be in regular contact regarding shared
concerns in respect to motorcycling matters.
Contact MAG at 01926 844 064 or central-office@mag-uk.org