Remember, Remember the 5th of November – Why Bonfire Night Can Be Dangerous for Motorcyclists
Bonfire Night is a time for fireworks, celebrations and family fun. But for motorcyclists, 5th November can bring some additional dangers on UK roads.
While many people are looking forward to fireworks displays and bonfire parties, riders need to be particularly alert to the hazards that come with the celebrations.
Motorcyclists are already among the most vulnerable road users. With darker evenings, increased pedestrian activity and potentially distracted drivers, Bonfire Night is a date when taking extra care really matters.
Here are some things every motorcyclist should be aware of:
1. Distracted drivers
Fireworks displays, bonfire parties and roadside celebrations can all take drivers’ attention away from the road.
Drivers may be looking towards fireworks, searching for somewhere to park, checking directions or simply distracted by passengers and activity around them.
For motorcyclists, this can be particularly dangerous. A driver who fails to spot a bike approaching, pulls out unexpectedly or changes direction without checking properly can leave a rider with very little time to react.
Our advice: Assume other road users haven’t seen you. Keep a safe following distance, anticipate potential hazards and be particularly cautious at junctions.
2. More pedestrians on the roads
Bonfire Night often means families and groups of friends walking to local displays, pubs and organised events.
Pedestrians may be crossing roads away from designated crossings, stepping out between parked cars or walking along poorly lit streets.
Children can be particularly unpredictable, especially when excited by fireworks and celebrations.
Our advice: Reduce your speed in residential areas, particularly near parks, schools, organised displays and popular bonfire locations. Expect people to appear unexpectedly.
3. Smoke, fireworks and poor visibility
Fireworks displays can create considerable amounts of smoke, which may drift across nearby roads and reduce visibility.
Smoke, darkness and glare from fireworks can make it harder for riders and drivers to see what’s happening around them.
Firework debris can also land on surrounding roads, potentially creating additional hazards.
Our advice: If visibility becomes significantly reduced, don’t take unnecessary risks. Slow down, increase your stopping distance and, if conditions become unsafe, find somewhere safe to stop until visibility improves.
4. Darker evenings and poor road conditions
By 5th November, we’re well into the darker months. Many journeys take place in darkness, and wet, cold weather can make road conditions more challenging.
Wet leaves, standing water, mud and slippery road markings can all affect motorcycle grip.
Remember that a road which looks perfectly safe from inside a car may present a very different challenge on two wheels.
Our advice: Check your tyres, lights and brakes before setting off. Wear appropriate clothing and make sure you’re visible to other road users.
5. Increased traffic around celebrations
Popular firework displays can attract large crowds, resulting in congestion, temporary road closures and unfamiliar traffic movements. Drivers may make sudden stops, reverse into parking spaces or perform unexpected U-turns while searching for somewhere to park.
Motorcyclists should be particularly careful when filtering through slow moving traffic and avoid assuming that other drivers have spotted them.
Our advice: Allow extra time for your journey, check for planned road closures and avoid unneccesary manouevres in congested areas.
6. Never underestimate the impact of alcochol
Bonfire Night is also a popular evening for pub visits and social gatherings.
Unfortunately, some people will still make the decision to drive after drinking alcohol.
Even small amounts of alcohol can affect reaction times, concentration and judgement. For motorcyclists, the consequences of another road user’s impaired driving can be devastating.
Our advice: Never ride after drinking alcohol, and remain particularly alert to other road users who may not be making sensible decisions.
A litte extra caution can make all the difference
We don’t want to put a dampener on anyone’s Bonfire Night celebrations. We simply want everyone to get home safely.
Motorcycling brings incredible freedom, but it also means being aware of the risks and anticipating what other road users might do.
This 5th November, take a little extra care, look out for pedestrians, stay visible and give yourself plenty of time to react.
And remember, the only thing that should be going off with a bang is the fireworks!
From everyone at Sorrymate, have a fantastic Bonfire Night and ride safely.
Bikers helping bikers
