MSF RETS: a system design to succeed [hazard perception for motorcyclists]

Research has shown the more experienced operators scan the road better and recognize important clues much earlier than novices. There is also earlier identification by experienced operators that a hazardous situation is developing. This is likely to lead to action before the conflict occurs. The MAIDS study confirmed that one of the main contributing factors to motorcycle crashes is related to perceptual errors. Both the United Kingdom and Australia have added a hazard perception component to their licensing process. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) has been working on several new programs that are designed to provide training in hazard perception. The programs will be available to training providers and government agencies. The value of hazard perception training has been demonstrated in laboratory settings. The intent of these MSF-developed programs is to not only assist riders in developing their hazard perception skills, but to transcend the straightforward practice of hazard identification by expanding learning activities to address the human visual characteristics as well as executive functions. The idea of giving riders an awareness of the importance of executive functions like attention, prioritizing and strategizing would mean more meaningful hazard perception training.