Detective Inspector Mark Steel says early investigations indicate the motorcyclist and the car were both travelling south when they collided. Photo: Claire Sams.
Emergency services were met with a “devastating scene” when they were called to Brindabella Road, south of Uriarra Village, at about 4:50 pm on Wednesday (3 December), the site of the ACT’s eighth road fatality this year, and the fourth incident involving a motorcycle.
On Thursday (4 December), ACT Policing Detective Inspector Mark Steel said that “there wasn’t a lot left” of the Yamaha motorcycle, which was destroyed in a fire after a crash with a Honda SUV.
“It would appear the early investigations are they were both travelling in a southerly direction, close to the intersection with Uriarra Road, when the collision occurred,” he said.
“The circumstances of the collision are currently being investigated.”
He said the motorcyclist, a 22-year-old man, was wearing full protective equipment at the time and that witnesses had given him CPR in an attempt to save him.
A 21-year-old woman, who had been driving the Honda, also suffered minor injuries.
She was taken to hospital for observation.
Detective Inspector Steel said the incident occurred on a rural road, and stressed the need for vigilance and to drive to the conditions.
“It’s a reminder of the vulnerabilities of motorcyclists on the road, who place themselves in greater danger of serious injury or fatality as a result of a collision,” he said.
“In the lead up to the holiday period, I want to remind Canberrans that road safety is everyone’s responsibility – on all our roads.”
He also called on motorcyclists to check their blind spots and be vigilant of their surroundings while riding.
Detective Inspector Steel said the role that speed may have played in the collision will form part of the investigation.
“Speed is responsible for one in three fatalities on our roads nationally every year, so we’re always looking at speed as a causal factor in relation to collisions.”
He added that police would be targeting impaired driving this month.
“I’m concerned that the message isn’t getting across to the motorists on our roads, but it’s now December, we’re coming up to the holiday period.
“I want everyone to be safe on our roads. I want everyone to take it seriously and be responsible on our roads.”
ACT Road Policing’s Major Collision Team is investigating the incident.
As part of their investigation, police have asked that anyone who was near Uriarra Village (especially on Brindabella Road and Uriarra Road) and saw a blue motorcycle or a dark blue Honda SUV come forward.
They are also seeking dashcam footage from the area between 4 pm and 4:50 pm.
A report is being prepared for the Coroner.
Anyone who can assist with information regarding this matter (and has not already spoken to police) is asked to contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or visiting the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Please quote P2403404. Information can be provided anonymously.
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