Have you heard of the proposed changes to motorcycling licences as put forward by Adelaide University’s Centre for Automotive Safety Research for the Transport Department? In brief here are the proposals:-
- raising the minimum riding age from 16 to 18 years.
- forcing 50cc scooter/moped riders to hold a full R licence. Currently they require a car licence.
- riders on L plates for at least 6 months and increasing R-date licences (equivalent of P plates) from 1 to 2 years.
- imposing a curfew on learners from midnight to 5am and a total ban on drugs/alcohol.
- enforcing the wearing of high visibility clothing.
- introducing ‘on road’ licence testing and a new ‘hazard perception’ test.
Other changes such as not using phones, not being allowed to tow trailers and not being allowed a pillion passenger have also been put forward.
The 36-page review, entitled Recommendations for a graduated Licencing System for Motorcyclists in South Australia, rules out mandatory protective clothing, but it urges other measures such as improved infrastructure spending, better vehicle technology as well as training and police enforcement. There seem to be no proposals for advanced training.
The report is on this website https://yoursay.sa.gov.au/decisions/mc-licensing/ while submissions can also be sent to DPTI.roadsafety@sa.gov.au The consultation closes on February 16.
Will the new bike laws affect current r-date riders’ 12 month restricted time? A rider who has 6 months left on r-date for example.