Queensland Police are urging motorists and motorcycle riders to take greater care on the roads, with 67 motorcyclists losing their lives across the state so far in 2026.
The alarming figure comes as police mark Motorcycle Awareness Month throughout October, highlighting the vulnerability of riders and the importance of all road users taking responsibility for safety.
Speaking on West Bremer Radio’s Crime Watch, Sergeant Nadine Webster from the Ipswich District Crime Prevention Unit said the campaign was an important reminder that even a momentary lapse in concentration could have devastating consequences.
“Motorcycle riders are among Queensland’s most vulnerable road users and have little protection in a crash, making every decision on the road pretty crucial,” Sergeant Webster said.
Motorcycle riders overrepresented in road fatalities
According to Sergeant Webster, motorcycles account for approximately one in every 20 registered vehicles in Queensland, yet motorcycle crashes are responsible for almost one in every four lives lost on the state’s roads.
She said the figures demonstrated just how vulnerable riders were compared with other motorists.
“That’s one in every four,” she said.
Sergeant Webster confirmed that 67 motorcyclists had died on Queensland roads so far this year, with the Ipswich region also affected by the tragic road toll.
She said it was important to remember that behind every statistic was a person whose death had a lasting impact on family, friends and the wider community.
“Every one of those fatalities represents a person whose loss is felt by loved ones and the broader community,” she said.
“That is why we are continuing to encourage riders to take every precaution to stay safe on our roads.”
Drivers urged to slow down and look twice
Motorcycle Awareness Month is an annual Queensland road safety campaign encouraging motorists to be more aware of motorcycles while promoting responsible riding behaviour.
Sergeant Webster said drivers needed to recognise that motorcycles could be harder to see in traffic and that taking an extra moment to check their surroundings could save a life.
“For those who are on four wheels, slow down, look twice and share the road with motorcyclists,” she said.
“Every decision you make and every extra moment of attention could make the difference between life and death.”
Police are encouraging drivers to pay particular attention when changing lanes, approaching intersections and travelling alongside motorcycles.
Checking mirrors and blind spots, maintaining safe following distances and avoiding sudden manoeuvres are among the simple precautions that can help reduce the risk of a collision.
Sergeant Webster stressed that road safety was a shared responsibility, with both drivers and riders needing to make sensible decisions.
Riders reminded to manage speed and conditions
While the campaign encourages motorists to watch for motorcycles, police are also reminding riders to take responsibility for their own safety.
Sergeant Webster said excessive speed, fatigue, impairment and failing to adjust to changing road conditions could increase the risk of a serious crash.
“To all road users, adjust your driving or riding to the conditions, manage your speed and never get behind the wheel or handlebars if you are impaired or fatigued,” she said.
During the interview, West Bremer Radio presenter Damo described recently witnessing a motorcyclist weaving between vehicles while travelling along the Warrego Highway.
Sergeant Webster said dangerous behaviour was a concern regardless of whether someone was driving a car or riding a motorcycle.
“It doesn’t matter whether you’re on a bike or in a car. At the end of the day, nobody wants to have an accident,” she said.
“But also nobody wants to be responsible for the death or loss of life or injury of another rider or vehicle driver.”
She encouraged everyone to remain alert and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
“Please slow down, drive and ride to the conditions, look out for motorcyclists and be aware of what’s going on around you while you are on the road.”
Police share motorcycle safety videos
As part of Motorcycle Awareness Month, Queensland Police are encouraging riders to watch the Ride With Me video series.
The videos feature established and experienced motorcyclists sharing practical advice about road awareness, riding techniques and ways to reduce risks while travelling.
Sergeant Webster said the series was designed to help riders develop safer habits and make better decisions on the road.
The videos are available through the Queensland Police Service’s YouTube channel.
Police are encouraging both experienced riders and those new to motorcycling to take advantage of the information.
Road safety is everyone’s responsibility
Sergeant Webster said Motorcycle Awareness Month was about much more than enforcing traffic laws.
She said the campaign aimed to encourage a culture in which every road user considered the safety of others.
“Motorcycle Awareness Month is a reminder that road safety is everyone’s responsibility and not just about road rules and enforcement,” she said.
“It’s about protecting lives and ensuring everyone gets home safely after every ride or every drive.”
With the warmer weather bringing more motorcycles onto Queensland roads, police are asking motorists to remain patient, stay alert and make safe decisions.
For further road safety information, residents can visit police.qld.gov.au or follow the MyPolice Ipswich and Greater Ipswich social media pages.
The Ipswich District Crime Prevention Unit can also be contacted on 3436 3479.
The message from police this October is simple: slow down, look twice and share the road — because every life matters.
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