‘HIGH speed, high risk’ is the message from Dyfed-Powys Police as it launches a campaign aimed at reducing the number of motorcycle-related deaths and serious injuries.

In 2018, 67 motorcyclists were either killed or seriously injured on roads in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys, and figures held by the force show that men were eight times more likely to be affected than women.

Dyfed-Powys Police has now launched its annual campaign, called #OpDarwen, which aims to reduce those numbers. The force is warning that there will be an increased focus on roads until October.

As part of the operation they are urging motorcyclists to ride safely and reminding drivers to be vigilant to motorbikes and other powered two-wheelers.

Superintended Craig Templeton, head of specialist operations at Dyfed-Powys Police, said:

“Motorcyclists have long been identified as particularly vulnerable road users and reducing the number of road deaths and casualties on our roads is a priority.

“Most fatal road collisions happen on country roads and inappropriate speed is one of the main factors.

“The national speed limit on single carriage roads is 60mph but you may need to drive under that in order to drive correctly for the conditions.

“These roads often have sharp bends, blind bends and unexpected hazards - brake carefully and give yourself time to react and stay in control.

“As the weather improves we see more bikers on the roads taking advantage of the stunning routes through Dyfed-Powys. As well as locals, we are seeing more and more visitors coming here to enjoy the scenery.

“We have always welcomed motorcyclists from outside our borders to enjoy the landscape, but they must be aware that Dyfed-Powys Police is doing all it can to ensure our roads are used safely by all

“Our officers see far too many tragedies, many preventable. Roads Policing Units will be out throughout Dyfed-Powys using a combination of education, engagement and enforcement to prevent further tragedies. ”