Spring signals the start of motorcycling season in Canada. That’s why May is officially recognized as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This national initiative promotes motorcycle safety among all road users across Canada. Drivers play a vital role in motorcycle safety. We all know that driving requires our full attention. The consequences of distracted driving are potentially deadly for everyone sharing our roads. We ask that all motorists commit to fully participating in driving and to put away the distractions. We always ask motorcyclists to ride within speed limits and skill level, wear all the gear all the time, and make themselves visible to other road users.
We Share the Road. Let’s Share the Responsibility.
Motorcycle riders continue to be overrepresented in fatal traffic crashes. In 2019, 5,014 motorcyclists died. To keep everyone safe, we urge drivers and motorcyclists to share the road and be alert, and we’re reminding motorcyclists to make themselves visible, to use DOT-compliant motorcycle helmets, and to always ride sober.
Motorcyclists At Risk
Watch Out for Each Other!
Here are 10 tips from the Motorcycle and Moped Industry Council (MMIC) to keep motorcyclists riding safely all season long:
- Ease back into riding season by getting comfortable on your motorcycle.
- Check your bike regularly to ensure tires, controls, lights, and fluids are all in good working order.
- Practice key riding skills like quick swerves, U-turns, emergency braking, figure 8, turning, etc.
- Gear up, every ride, with an approved helmet, as well as a jacket, pants, gloves, and boots.
- Choose hi-visibility, bright-coloured riding gear to be seen.
- Be aware of the weather and adjust your riding style and riding gear accordingly.
- Ride defensively by remaining vigilant, staying situationally aware, and avoiding threats.
- Stay at a safe distance from other vehicles so you have the time and space to react if necessary.
- Stay out of blind spots by riding in front or behind vehicles, rather than to the side of vehicles.
- Ride in staggered formation on group rides to allow each rider to have a clear view ahead.
Car and truck drivers should also be on the lookout for motorcycles on the roads, by practicing these safe driving tips all season long:
- Always check your mirrors and blind spots, especially before turning or changing lanes.
- Take that second look to better judge the speed and distance of a motorcycle in your vicinity.
- Allow for extra room to avoid cutting off a motorcyclist.
- Allow for extra space when driving behind a motorcyclist.
For more information visit www.nhtsa.gov/safety/motorcycles.