BIKE’S LEGAL EXPERT SAYS
In Mark’s case (above), he’s seen the offending truck’s depot so can trace the driver and claim on their insurance. When the spillage origin is unclear, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) Untraced Drivers Agreement compensates road users involved in accidents where drivers can’t be traced. Every vehicle dropping a dangerous substance is individually liable, but as contributors to a pile of dangerous material they’re all liable together. If no-one can be traced the MIB is obliged to compensate. If a driver can be blamed for part of the spillage then under joint liability his insurers would pay out.
Andrew Dalton
Senior partner at White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors
BIKE’S RIDING EXPERT SAYS
We love riding country lanes, but farm spillages and road debris are always a threat. Local knowledge is key, but even if you’ve never ridden a road there are often clues. In Mark’s case (above), it must be harvest — expect farm traffic and bird food. In winter, mud from fields and building sites is prevalent – it gets thinner away from entrances so watch for changes in surface. If you get into trouble in a corner, try to lift the bike upright — if you can steer to a grippier area then hopefully you can keep cornering. It partly relies on having space — but, basically, you should be able to stop in the distance you can see ahead.
Gary Baldwin
Director of Rapid Training and accident investigator for Thames Valley police
Article from Bike Magazine
