Time is running out to spot “Joe Rider” on the streets of the Cessnock LGA – and the chance to win.
Motorists have between now and Friday 6 May to report the sighting of the mysterious figure, who is part of council’s local motorcycle safety campaign.
The initiative is all about encouraging drivers to “look out” for motorcyclists, in the hope of reducing the frequency of “sorry mate I didn’t see you” (SMIDSY) crashes, which many riders have experienced.
If you recognise Joe Rider in your travels, fill in the online form on council’s website to go in the running to win daily $50 vouchers and a grand prize of $250 at the end of the week.
Cessnock City mayor Jay Suvaal said the campaign was a positive initiative that promoted road users to be aware of motorcycle riders.
“Too many lives are lost through accidents that could be prevented if drivers paid closer attention on the roads,” he explained.
“This campaign is a fun way to change driver behaviour and help save lives.”
Council’s road safety officer Alison Shelton is encouraging residents to keep an eye out for motorcycle riders, who will be sporting bright yellow ‘Joe Rider’ vests in the first week of May.
“Motorcyclists are more exposed than any other vehicles on our roads,” she said.
“This campaign aims to encourage drivers to consistently look out for them and develop new habits, helping them Ride to Live.
“In the five-year period from 2016 to 2020, there were 136 crashes in the Cessnock LGA with motorcycle involvement, and 44% of these involved another vehicle.
“Almost half of these accidents occurred in low-speed environments, and 29% were at intersections, which shows they can be easily overlooked by other road users.
“Getting in the habit of checking our mirrors and blind spots for riders, and being more cautious at intersections, will help to reduce SMIDSY crashes on our roads.”
Residents will also have an opportunity to spot “Joe” in the Singleton, Muswellbrook, Upper Hunter, Mid-Coast LGAs, too.
Visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/JoeRider for more details on how to enter the competition.
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