THE Motor Rider Training Association is calling on fleets who are swapping cars for motorcycles to train drivers. Figures released by the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions revealed that the number of deaths and injuries to motorcycle riders increased by 6% in 1997 compared to the previous year.

The MRTA is now reminding fleets that taking on motorcycles is only a cheaper and more economical option if the proper training courses are used.

MRTA director Kevin Kelly said: 'Training is vital, particularly for someone who hasn't been on a bike for a while, and refresher training is even more important. Within fleets riders can easily get into bad habits and that is where refresher courses come in. It has to be in the best interest of fleet managers to make sure riders are properly trained. Increased accidents will not only push up insurance premiums, they are far more likely to result in serious injury.'