Calls for motorcyclist licensing review after two teenagers die in a week

A motorcycle safety group has renewed calls for a licensing review after two teenage riders lost their lives on the state’s roads within a week.

Police at scene of the motorcycle crash at a Salisbury East bus stop, where 18-year-old Anthony Zaltron died on Saturday. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

A motorcycle safety group has renewed calls for a licensing review after two teenage riders lost their lives on the state’s roads within a week.

A task force established in late 2017 by the former state government examined a motorcycle graduated licensing scheme, similar to car P-plate licences, along with other safety initiatives following 22 motorcyclist deaths that year.

However, a change of government and a year of comparatively fewer motorcycle deaths has led to the report falling by the way side.

Motorcycle Riders’ Association of South Australia president Graeme Rawlins said he would embrace any measures which would improve road safety.

“We were participants of the review and would welcome any recommendations which would make our riders safer on the road,” Mr Rawlins said.

“But we have been writing letters to the government to find out the result and have heard nothing back. Two deaths, particularly of young riders so early in the year may trigger the government to do something.”

Road Safety Minister Corey Wingard said he had reviewed the results of the task force.

“Cabinet has considered a Transport Department review on proposed changes to motorbike licensing and any outcomes will be revealed in due course,” he said.

“While a series of targeted and strategic initiatives helped keep the South Australian road toll to its lowest on record last year, any death on our roads is one too many.”

Just before midday on Saturday, Dernancourt teenager and learner motorcyclist Anthony Zaltron died after losing control of his bike and crashing into a bus stop on Bridge Rd at Salisbury East.

The 18-year-old died at the scene. On Sunday, friends and family laid flowers at the site of the crash and held an emotional vigil for the young motorbike lover.

Less than a week earlier Amir Ali, 19, died after crashing his bike on South Rd at Regency Park last Sunday.

The Enfield man crashed about 4.45pm and was rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital in a serious condition. He died a short time later.

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