A road safety campaigner is urging both drivers and riders to be more alert on the road after new statistics revealed that 51 motorcyclists have been killed in Northern Ireland over the last five years.

Martyn Boyd from the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has joined the Share the Road to Zero campaign, which promotes greater responsibility and care among all road users. Mr Boyd, a motorcyclist for 45 years, highlighted the dangers of driver carelessness, noting that it is a leading cause of motorcyclist deaths and serious injuries. He urged drivers to "take an extra two seconds to check" for motorcyclists, especially at junctions or when turning, citing an incident where his car's windscreen pillar obscured a rider from his view.

While acknowledging that some collisions are the fault of riders, he also advised motorcyclists to be prepared for hazards, ride in a position that offers the best visibility, and not depend on other road users to see them.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins also highlighted the tragic death toll on Northern Ireland's roads, where on average one person dies each week. She stated that motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable groups and urged drivers to "always take another look" before making a manoeuvre.

Recent signatories to the Share the Road to Zero campaign include Olympian Ciara Mageean, Northern Ireland footballer Conor Bradley, and Ulster Rugby players Jacob Stockdale, Nick Timoney, and Michael Lowry.