A Safety Message from the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF)

As the seasons shift and autumn blankets the UK countryside, the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) are urging riders to be extra vigilant. While the turning of leaves and cooler temperatures offer a beautiful backdrop for riding, they also bring significant, often hidden dangers such as mud, agricultural debris, and harvest-related spillages.

This time of year, rural roads see heightened activity from farm machinery and transport vehicles which can leave behind hazardous deposits. These aren’t just a nuisance they pose a serious threat to rider safety.
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The Slippery Truth

Mud, grain, silage and other farm materials can drastically reduce tyre traction, particularly when wet or hidden under fallen leaves. A small patch of mud can lead to a serious skid or complete loss of control. This danger is only increased in adverse weather conditions such as rain, mist, or early frost, all of which are common in autumn.

Riders must stay alert and anticipate these risks, especially on rural roads, bends, shaded areas and routes near farmland.
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Our Advice to You: Ride Smart, Stay Safe

✅ Reduce Speed
Slow down in known agricultural areas. Mud tends to accumulate near farm gates, in road dips, or shaded areas where moisture lingers.

✅ Increase Visibility
Be on the lookout for signs of nearby farm activity: tractors pulling out of fields, tyre tracks across roads, soil on the verges. These often indicate nearby or recent fieldwork.

✅ Smooth Inputs
If you ride through mud or debris, avoid sudden braking or steering. Keep the motorcycle upright, maintain a steady throttle, and use gentle controls to prevent sliding.

✅ Keep Your Distance
Extend your following distance behind other vehicles. This gives you extra time to react and reduces the risk of encountering hidden hazards too late.
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If You Encounter Dangerous Road Deposits

We strongly encourage riders to report significant, persistent, or dangerous deposits, such as thick mud or large areas of debris to the appropriate authorities. Swift reporting helps prevent accidents and holds those responsible accountable.

• Local Roads (Borough or County Council)
Use the GOV.UK website to locate your local council by postcode. Report hazardous conditions like mud, debris or unsafe verges directly to their highways team.

• Major Roads & A-Roads (National Highways)
Report directly to National Highways via their website or by calling 0300 123 5000. This includes incidents on motorways and major A-roads.
If the hazard presents an immediate danger, such as causing a crash or blocking the road, call 101 to report to the police or 999 in an emergency.
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The Law is Clear: Farmers Have Legal Duties

While we all share responsibility for road safety, it’s essential to remember that farmers and vehicle operators have a legal duty to ensure that mud or material from their vehicles does not create a danger to other road users.

Under the Highways Act 1980, it is an offence to deposit anything on the highway that endangers traffic. Failure to act can lead to criminal prosecution, fines, and civil liability for injuries or damages.

We encourage all riders to document hazardous incidents when safe to do so:

• Take photos
• Record time and location
• Report it promptly

This not only helps make roads safer but can support any future legal claim if damage or injury occurs.
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Legal Help is Available: Fletchers Solicitors

If you or someone you know suffers injury or damage due to mud or debris on the road, the BMF is here to support you.

BMF members have access to free legal advice through our trusted legal partner:

Fletchers Solicitors Experts in motorcycle and road traffic law

📞  0330 008 0326

Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need legal guidance following an incident.
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Ride Prepared, Ride Protected

This autumn, stay vigilant, ride defensively, and help spreading awareness of these seasonal road hazards. By keeping your eyes open and sharing reports of dangerous conditions, you’re helping to protect fellow riders across the UK.

For more essential riding advice, rider rights updates, and to support the BMF’s work promoting and protecting the interests of UK motorcyclists, visit:
🌐 www.bmf.co.uk

#ridealert #britishmotorcyclistsfederation #bikersafety #mudkills #autumnroadsafety #motorcycleawareness #hazards #staysafe

Written by MJ

Top image courtesy of Rachel Reinhardt – Unsplash