An 11 p.m. curfew on young motorcyclists could help make Bermuda's roads safer — but such a law would be difficult to enforce and may not be the answer on its own.

That was the verdict from the streets yesterday as Bermuda Road Safety Council's suggestion drew a mixed response from people talking to The Royal Gazette.

On Tuesday, BRSC's executive officer Roxanne Christopher-Petgrave suggested people aged 16 to 18 should be fined if found on the roads after the nighttime deadline, and risk having their bikes impounded.

Mrs. Christopher-Petgrave had told Hamilton Rotary the idea was part of a 'Graduated Licence' training programme being proposed by the Road Safety Council. The idea has yet to go to Cabinet.

Yesterday, Dazarrie Steede said: "I feel that everyone should have a curfew if they ride a bike as adults get in accidents too."

Kejon Trott, 20, commented: "I think it's a great idea. It could help stop all the deaths."

Haley Powell, 17, said: "It should be up to the parents to enforce that rule. If they do make it a law, then maybe it should just apply to the first two to three months of getting your licence — not two years."

Sophie Burt, 16, agreed but said it should be for about the first six months, adding: "It doesn't matter to me, I don't have a bike."

Emma Norman, 16, said: "With the current statistics on road deaths. It would be beneficial for Bermuda's youngsters."

Lesley Cox said: "I think it will be incredibly difficult to enforce this law, but I don't think it is a bad idea."

Katrina Smith, 34, said: "What if it was an emergency and that is the only mode of transport? What if they are at a friend's house: are you saying that they would have to cut their time in half?

"The time of day does not determine when an accident would happen. There are plenty of accidents that happen before 11 p.m."

Pablo Nenes, 33, said: "I think it's reasonable. Teenagers should not be out late riding bikes. This is for their security."

Mrs. Christopher-Petgrave said the majority of recent fatalities had been young people.

She said: "In the past, it was the older generation of 30 to 50-year-olds who were victims, but as of 2006/07 it has been the younger generation who are dying."

Public Safety Minister David Burch said in a statement it was his Ministry's view that mere suggestions have been made by the Bermuda Road Safety Council at his point.

"The public is encouraged to remember that, as an advisory body, the BRSC's main function is to pose recommendations to the Minister of Tourism and Transport for consideration. This seems to be the case," he said, adding he looked forward to such deliberations reaching Cabinet level for consultation.

Transport Minister Premier Brown said: "The Road Safety Council develops ideas which are sent forward to the Ministry for consideration. My preferred policy is to allow Cabinet to deliberate and decide before sharing details with the public."