Riding on the Isle of Man

Police Car The Isle of Man Constabulary welcome all our visitors for this years TT Festival which looks likely to be another well attended popular motor racing event. With this it is also likely that the roads will be congested with unusually high levels of all types of traffic, especially motor cycles. The Constabulary and especially the Roads Policing Unit will focus it’s activities on making the roads safe for everyone. This is of course dependant upon all road users being extra careful and vigilant during the TT period. The prime cause of road traffic collisions is often a mixture of excess speed and a lack of concentration. It is essential that all road users keep to the correct speed limits and concentrate on the road and other road users around them. You never know what’s around the next bend so please watch you speed and be mindful of others.

We use both Manx and UK registered cars during the festival – including an unmarked enforcement fleet. Are you sure that car behind isn’t a police car....

Inspector Richard Power, head of the Roads Policing Unit said;

‘Success during the TT for me will be looking at statistics which show a reduction in road traffic collisions and a reduction in casualties. The Roads Policing Unit will use a number of methods to achieve this. We will focus our patrols on areas where there have been a higher concentration of collisions. The use of speed enforcement will feature in reducing excess speed around the Island and we will continue to use video recording to evidence poor and dangerous driving or riding. If it is necessary to put people before the Courts then this will be done.

Safety is paramount. We want everyone to enjoy the festival, but most importantly, go home to their loved ones. Needless death and injury mars everyone’s enjoyment, but a few simple tips can make all the difference.'

DON’T break the posted speed limits. During TT 2007 we issued over 240 speeding summonses. And it isn’t a fixed penalty ticket here. Expect a conviction to cost you upwards of £ 250.00.

DON’T exceed your own limits. There is a fine line between fast and dangerous, and reckless use of the roads will not be tolerated and can result in a driving ban or at worst serious injury for yourself or others. Driving disqualifications and penalty points are reciprocal so if you get banned here it will also apply in the UK.

DON’T feel you have to get a ‘flyer’ over the Mountain in today. It is one way for the whole fortnight, so there is no need to cram it all in. Pace yourself.

DO come and ask us for advice and guidance. We are an approachable and friendly unit, and just want to make sure you have an excellent holiday and a safe time.

Finally, if you do come across a collision,

PROTECT THE SCENE – make sure more collisions aren’t likely to happen

HAVE ONE PERSON RING 999 – if we are overwhelmed by calls it can delay dispatch of the emergency services

GIVE FIRST AID – airways, breathing and circulation. We will be with you as quickly as we can

IDENTIFY WITNESSES – it is important we establish what has happened.

Most of all, have a great time and Ride Safe!