All deaths resulting from motorcycle crashes in WA this year were caused by human error, according to a new study.
Acting Road Safety Minister John Day said the tragedy faced by the 39 families of those who died in motorcycle crashes this year was completely avoidable.
"We're headed for one of the worst years for fatal crashes for some time, so to learn every one of those motorcycle crashes was avoidable is frustrating for the State Government, but no doubt heartbreaking for the families involved," Mr Day said.
Of the 39 deaths recorded this year, 26 were found to be the fault of the motorbike rider, while 13 were caused by the driver of another vehicle.
Mr Day said speed and reckless behaviour was a factor in 22 of the fatalities, while carelessness and inattention accounted for seven, and alcohol was a factor in four.
The findings were released as part of the launch for Motorcycle Safety Week.
Mr Day said police are bracing themselves for what is traditionally the worst time of the year for motorcycle crashes.
"We know during the summer months riders love to get on their motorcycles," he said.
"So we are again pleading with those riders and other drivers to look at these statistics, think about them and realise that your behaviour determines how safe our roads are."
Mr Day also urged motorcycle riders to wear appropriate protective clothing during the warmer months.
"What these statistics don't show are the large number of horrendous crashes which are not fatal but leave the rider or sometimes their passenger with horrific injuries," he said.
The WA Motorcycle Riders Association will hold safety workshops and bike checks throughout the week.
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