Are cable barriers deadly, or not?

No new cable barriers have been installed in Norway since 2006. One of the main reasons is the fear that they can be very dangerous for motorcyclists. Motorcycle interest organizations called them "egg slicers."

Now another interest organization is pushing for cable barriers to be used again. The Personal Injury Association believes it will save lives because we can quickly get more median-separated roads in Norway. The barriers require less space and are cheaper to install. However, maintenance costs may be somewhat higher.

The Norwegian Motorcycle Union remains strongly opposed to the measure, while Swedish traffic authorities report good experiences. They claim cable barriers are no more dangerous for motorcyclists than other types of barriers.

The Norwegian Public Roads Administration agrees with their Swedish colleagues and would like to install cable barriers in Norway. However, they’re being blocked by Transport Minister Ketil Solvik-Olsen.

One might ask whether this decision is based on facts or opinions?