NW200 - stay safe, stay alive

Motorists can expect increased number of traffic patrols on our roads across the North Coast area during race week, with the aim of ensuring the safety of all road users.

Roads Policing Inspector John Millar said: "A number of people have lost their lives while either travelling to or from this sporting spectacular. That is why road safety has got to be everyone's number one priority - it us up to every motorist to make sure they do not become another statistic.

"Most of all, do not try to emulate any of the riders taking part in the North West 200 as it is simply not sensible or safe to do so. It is very easy to get caught up in all the excitement that the practice sessions and the races bring, but all too often this can result in a serious traffic collision on open public roads.

"Of course, it is not enough to just drive safely on roads around the race circuit. You must also drive safely at all times whether you are en-route to the North coast from Armagh, Ballymena, Belfast, Cookstown, Derry, Enniskillen, Larne, Limavady, Londonderry, Newry, or indeed anywhere else in Ireland."

"I would also remind motorists that there is likely to be a considerable increase in the general level of traffic and particularly the number of motorcycles on the roads during race week. Drivers therefore need to be more alert to the presence of bikes, particularly when emerging from junctions...THINK BIKE."

"Motorcyclists have a huge role to play when it comes to road safety. Use dipped headlights, day and night, and consider sounding your horn to alert others to your presence as necessary. Ride responsibly and don't take foolish chances. You only get one life; make sure it doesn't come to an untimely end - BIKESAFE" concluded Inspector Millar.

Anyone who would like further advice on road safety, road craft or defensive driving should contact their local Road Policing Unit on 0845 600 8000.