The number of claims in Gisborne peaked, along with the rest of the country, in 2024 when ACC accepted 79 motorcycle-related injuries in the Gisborne region with a cost of $1.9m.
Ministry of Transport data shows there were 292 deaths on New Zealand roads in 2024 – 53 of these were riding motorcycles.
Whitaker said that both motorbike riders and car drivers were responsible for reducing motorcycle fatalities and injuries.
“We can all do a lot better,” he said.
ACC said riders needed to make sure their gear and bikes were in good condition before hitting the roads, while car drivers should keep an eye out for motorcyclists, particularly at intersections.
“We’ve all got to be more aware of the dangers at intersections,” Whitaker said.
“When you’re sitting at an intersection, look again for motorcyclists, not just your gap. Check your blind spots, too.”
Although motorcycles make up 5% of vehicles on New Zealand roads, they’re involved in 13% of accidents and account for 20% of ACC road claims costs.
Whitaker encouraged all motorcyclists to complete a Ride Forever course.
ACC data showed riders who’ve completed a Ride Forever course were up to 50% less likely to lodge a motorcycle-related accident claim than non-trained riders.
To date, around 16,000 riders had completed at least one Rider Forever course.
