Motorbike riders have said greater access to bus lanes will keep them safer on Britain's roads.

At the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) bike conference this week, a survey of 130 motorcyclists saw bikers vote overwhelmingly for increased access.

Dave Shenton, IAM motorcycling manager and conference chairman, said: "This survey confirms motorcyclists are becoming increasingly concerned for their safety now that urban roads are busier than ever."

He added that it makes little sense for motorcyclists to filter within inches of stationary vehicles when the use of space nearby would leave them more visible and cause less anxiety to all road users.

The results of a Transport for London pilot study carried out on motorcyclists' use of bus lanes in 2002 found such a move could benefit powered two wheelers but raised issues concerning cyclists and pedestrians.

Last week, the Association of British Drivers responded to a Department for Transport announcement that UK driving deaths fell below the 3,000 mark in 2007 by saying a great deal more can be done to improve the safety of Britain's roads.