As the warm weather of summer approaches, Alberta’s roads will see an increase in motorcycle traffic. With May designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Alberta RCMP is reminding all road users of the importance of motorcycle safety. With an increase in motorcyclists on the roads, it’s crucial for both drivers and riders to stay vigilant to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety.
Why Motorcycle Safety Matters
Motorcycles are more vulnerable on the road compared to other vehicles. The risk of serious injury or death in motorcycle collisions is significantly higher. “Collisions involving motorcycles are a significant concern because there is a greater risk that it will result in a serious or fatal injury to the motorcycle driver or passenger,” says Inspector Steve Daley, Acting Officer-in-Charge of Alberta RCMP Traffic Services.
The RCMP emphasizes that motorcycle safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers need to be extra cautious, particularly at intersections where many collisions occur due to drivers failing to notice motorcyclists. Motorcyclists, on their part, should make every effort to be visible and avoid blind spots.
Safety Tips for Drivers
Be Extra Vigilant: Always watch for motorcycles, especially at intersections and when changing lanes. Motorcycles can be harder to spot and their speed can be deceptive due to their size.
Share the Road: Make a habit of checking for motorcyclists when turning or changing lanes. Look twice to ensure that no motorcyclists are in your path.
Avoid Blind Spots: Position your vehicle where you can see and be seen by other drivers and motorcyclists.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
Be Visible: Motorcycles are smaller and can be harder to see. Wear high-visibility jackets and helmets in bright colors like orange, yellow, or white to increase your visibility on the road.
Wear Proper Gear:
- Helmet: Wearing a helmet is not just advisable but legally required in Alberta. Helmets reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 37% in collisions. Always replace damaged helmets and avoid buying used ones, as they may have hidden damage.
- Eye Protection: Use shatter-proof eye protection to safeguard against debris and wind.
- Clothing: Wear a durable, brightly colored jacket, long pants, leather footwear that covers the ankles, full-fingered gloves, and rain or cold-weather riding gear as needed.
Ride Defensively: Avoid speeding and showing off. Ride in a manner that enhances your visibility and safety.
Understand Motorcycle Speed: Never underestimate how fast a motorcycle is traveling. Their speed can be deceptive due to their smaller size.
Join the Movement
To kick off Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services participated in the Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society’s (AMSS) launch event on May 2, 2017, at City Hall Plaza. The AMSS, a non-profit organization, collaborates with the motorcycle industry, government bodies, and media to promote and educate on motorcycle safety throughout Alberta.
For more information on motorcycle safety or if you have any questions, contact Constable Mike Hibbs of Alberta RCMP Traffic Services at 780-779-7694.
Stay Safe and Share the Road
As more motorcycles hit the road this season, let’s all do our part to keep our roads safe. By following these safety tips and remaining vigilant, we can help prevent accidents and ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and enjoyable riding season.
Sources:
- Alberta RCMP Traffic Services
- Alberta Transportation
- Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society
