More motorcycle deaths already in Suffolk than last year

So far this year (up to July 3), there have been five deaths involving motorcyclists and one cyclist - six in total - whereas in the whole of 2022, there were five deaths - three motorcyclists and two cyclists.

During the last week alone, motorcyclists have died in crashes on the B1078 at Campsea Ashe, B1122 at Theberton and Orford Road, Bromeswell.

READ MORE: Motorcyclist who died after crash in Bromeswell is named

In total, there have been 17 road deaths already this year from 15 collisions, but in 2022 there were 22 deaths in total from 20 collisions.

Insp Gary Miller, from the Norfolk and Suffolk Roads Armed Policing Team, urged bikers to ride within their capabilities and to be aware of their surroundings, particularly the type of road they were travelling on, the road conditions, lighting and traffic flow.

For example, if they were on a narrow country lane with blind corners that had a 60mph speed limit, it might not be safe to travel at that speed and they should reduce their speed accordingly.

READ MORE: Man who died in crash in Woodbridge named as Chris Ward

Insp Miller said they should be constantly asking 'what if, what if, what if'- what if there was a broken down vehicle or other potential hazard around the corner?

Insp Gary Miller, of Norfolk and Suffolk Roads Armed Policing Team, urged motorcyclists to be aware when riding on the road (Image: Suffolk Constabulary)

He added motorcyclists were vulnerable road users because they did not have the protections available to car drivers and advised they checked their motorbikes were in good order before setting off on the road.

READ MORE: Man dies after crash on B1122 in Theberton near Leiston

"We are always concerned - we see the impact on individuals and families and these sorts of things, so absolutely, we are concerned about it and we will be putting measures in place around enforcement and education with our partners to get that message home," Insp Miller said.

There were a lot of different things that contributed to accidents and no two accidents were the same, Insp Miller said, although there were often more crashes at this time of the year with more people out on the roads.

However, the increase in accidents over a short period of time was 'concerning,' he said, while unmarked police patrol cars were on the look out for motorcyclists behaving anti-socially.

READ MORE: Motorcyclist dies after serious crash in Woodbridge