Girlfriend of bike crash victim makes hi-vis law plea
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THE girlfriend of a motorcyclist killed in a road accident almost a year ago wants a change in the law to force bikers to wear high-visibility jackets in the hope of saving lives.
Brent Larnach died when his motorbike was involved in a collision with another vehicle on the outskirts of Thrumster on April 28, 2012.
As the anniversary of his death approaches, his partner Leanne Sutherland is now organising a petition aimed at preventing further road deaths.
Miss Sutherland (29), of Mayfield Road, Thurso, said Brent’s death had spurred her on to get the law changed so nobody ever had to go through the pain she and her two children have endured since the accident.
She said the simple change in clothing could make all the difference.
"Most motorcyclists who are out riding their bikes are dressed in black leather jackets, and it is not always the most noticeable clothing to see," she said.
"Wearing hi-visibility shirts would help other drivers notice them and could potentially save lives."
The campaign, promoted through Miss Sutherland’s Facebook site, has already received more than 110 signatures on the website Change.org.
She hopes to collect at least 200 signatures and arrange to speak to far north MP John Thurso about taking her petition to Westminster.
"Ever since Brent died I have been thinking of what I could do to stop others being killed in these tragic accidents," she said.
"I want it to be made law that all motorcyclists have to wear high-visibility clothing while on their bikes. It is something very simple but it could make a difference."
Mr Larnach (28), from Clyth, worked as a derrickman for an oil company and left behind his father, Noel, stepmother Linda Baker and two sisters Tempel and Somer.
Last year Miss Sutherland and members of Brent’s family held a special event which raised over £4000 for three worthy causes in Caithness. Her petition has also received the support of the father of Christopher Durrand (17) who died in a car accident in February last year.
George Durrand said he understood what Mr Larnach’s relatives and friends had been through, and what was driving Miss Sutherland to call for a change in the law. Since the death of his only son, Mr Durrand has been an active campaigner for improved road safety and fully supports Miss Sutherland’s campaign, being willing to assist in any way he can.
"Anything that helps prevent another death on the roads can only be seen as a good thing," he said.
"Motorists don’t tend to give looking out for bikers a second thought, and they are not the easiest people to spot.
"I support the campaign to make it law for motorcyclists to wear high-visibility vests on the road.
"All families who know what it is like to experience the death of a loved one through a road accident should be backing her cause as well."
Police Scotland Wick duty sergeant Nick Clasper yesterday commended Miss Sutherland’s campaign and on behalf of police officers in Caithness said it would receive their support. He said: "We support any efforts to improve road safety in the area – particularly in relation to motorcyclists."
Those interested in signing the petition can visit www.change.org and type in Leanne Sutherland or find the link on her Facebook page.
