With summer weather and the ability to get out of the house inviting more people to dust off their motorcycles, the RCMP is taking the time to urge caution while riding.
During Motorcycle Safety Month, police are reminding riders to properly gear up, make sure you can be seen out on the road, and if someone is just learning to ride, they should try to practice in low traffic areas before hitting the busy roads.
Lloydminster RCMP Constable Michael Hagel says the collisions he does see could be avoided by paying attention.
“The collisions are mainly caused by running off the road, maybe following too closely, changing lanes improperly, making left-hand turns in front of motorcycles and sometimes striking that part of the vehicle.”
While drivers do need to add an extra layer of caution with bikes on the road, it is a shared responsibility between riders and drivers. Hagel adds that there are simple steps riders can take to ensure fun and safe travels.
“Make sure that you are aware that you’re sharing the road with a much larger vehicle. When it comes to motorcycle vs car, you know who always wins that collision. Make sure you’re not speeding, make sure you are taking the extra time if you’re going to pass a car. Take the extra time and make sure you do have room to make that pass.”
The Alberta RCMP says seventeen people were killed in motorcycle accidents last riding season.