ABS reduces motorcycle casualties by over 30 per cent

A new report into the benefits of anti-lock braking systems (ABS) on motorcycles in Australia has found that ABS could help in 93 per cent of crash situations.

Minister for Territories, Local Government and Major Projects Paul Fletcher said the report found that ABS reduced motorcycle injury crashes by 31 per cent and was even more effective in more serious crashes.

“The report commissioned by the Australian and Victorian governments indicates that ABS could provide a 36 per cent overall reduction in fatal and severe injury crashes,” Mr Fletcher said.

“ABS technology is common in passenger cars sold in Australia, however only around 20 per cent of new motorcycles are sold with it.”

Mr Fletcher said researchers believe the current road safety benefits of ABS would be increased by up to 60 per cent if ABS became standard on all new motorcycles from 2018.

“With motorcycles currently the fastest growing vehicle type, ABS could make a real impact on reducing the fatalities on Australia’s roads each year,” Mr Fletcher said.

“ABS has the potential to save over 70 of the more than 200 motorcyclists’ lives lost each year and reduce hospitalisations by around 4,000 each year when fully implemented throughout the motorcycle fleet.”

In line with the National Road Safety Strategy Action Plan 2015-2017, the Australian Government will develop a Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) to consider mandating ABS for motorcycles. Consultations will be held with motorcycle user groups and manufacturers about the report and the RIS.

To view the report, visit http://www.monash.edu.au/miri/research/reports/muarc327.html

The Minister for Territories, Local Government and Major Projects sits within the Infrastructure portfolio and has responsibility for motor vehicle issues.