As hundreds of people are trying on their leather jackets and dusting off their motorcycles ready for the spring weather, bike insurance riders have been reminded by the AA to be aware of the dangers of ‘road rust.’

Most of Britain’s 1.6 million motorbikes will be back on the nation’s roads over the next few weeks, a period which commonly witnesses a soar in road accidents as claims for bike insurance normally increase by 40% in spring.

This is because many bikers are ‘rusty’ having not ridden their bikes all winter, as are many car drivers who have grown used to having fewer bikes around.

Simon Douglas from the insurance group gave a startling message: “We have all heard of road rage, but at this time of year the big danger to bikers is ‘road rust' among drivers who have lost the habit of looking out for bikes. The skills of many motorcyclists need polishing too after a long lay-up, so it's important for both to be aware of the risks as the results can be tragic. Bikes can be repaired or replaced, but bikers cannot.”

In addition, the Easter holidays present further concerns for bikers as roads become more dangerous due to busy rush hour traffic and the school run, which account for a high portion of accidents.

Mike McMillan of BLD explains: “Fewer than 20 per cent of all motorcycle accidents that involve another party are wholly, or partly, the motorcyclist's fault so it is vital that all road users take extra care - especially in heavy traffic.”

Therefore, bike insurance riders have been advised to always wear protective gear and constantly monitor their driving.