Motorcyclists Pelted with Litter and Cigarette Butts on UK Roads
Britain’s motorcyclists are being bombarded with shocking levels of abuse, as drivers hurl litter and cigarette butts at them while overtaking, a startling new IAM RoadSmart survey reveals.
Nearly 4 in 10 Riders Targeted with Rubbish
A poll of 600 bikers shows that 37% have been deliberately hit with thrown rubbish in the past year. Incidents range from windscreen wash sprays to dangerous “dooring” – where drivers open car doors into cyclists’ paths.
Other risky behaviours include:
- 80% witnessing drivers distracted by mobile phones
- 80% reporting drivers failing to spot bikers at junctions
- 54% seeing drivers not checking mirrors when overtaking
- 60% experiencing tailgating
- 28% spotting drivers opening doors without looking
With motorcyclists 52 times more likely to die in crashes than car occupants, these actions put lives at serious risk, Department for Transport stats warn.
Riders Share Terrifying Roadside Experiences
Chris Palmer, a motorcycle coach from Exeter, revealed he’s been pelted with takeaway containers and litter by laughing car passengers.
“Incidents like this are reckless and could easily cause a serious accident. My advice: stay calm, don’t engage, and overtake safely.”
Graham Marsden from Portsmouth described being targeted with cola cans and blocked by aggressive drivers:
“It creates a hostile environment. You have to constantly factor these risks into your riding.”
Drivers Admit to Dangerous Behaviour, Too
A survey of 1,000 drivers found:
- 35% have witnessed bikers dangerously overtaking into their lanes
- 35% have been tailgated by motorcyclists
- 36% reported close passes by riders
Nicholas Lyes, Policy and Standards Director at IAM RoadSmart, slammed the reckless actions:
“Hurling litter and cigarette butts at motorcyclists is shocking and completely reckless. Courtesy and vigilance could save lives.”
Beware: Littering Can Cost You £500
Drivers caught littering may face fines up to £500, as stricter enforcement uses dashcam evidence to crack down on offenders.
With nearly half of adults now more worried about roadside litter, the message is clear: respect all road users and keep Britain’s roads safer for everyone.
