Spring is here and for motorcycle fans, it’s time to head out on the highway and look for adventure. But no biker wants a collision to ruin the fun. That’s why May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. As bikers get set to kick start the season, it’s a good time for all of us to remember to share the road and think about motorcycle safety.
What can you do? Whether you’re revving up the bike or driving in your car, it’s everyone’s responsibility to put safety first.
If you’re on a motorbike, follow the rules of the road. Maintain a safe speed, don’t zig-zag through traffic, and make sure to use your turn signals as necessary. Before you even hit the trail, take a few precautions. Make sure your bike is well maintained in working order (including the tires) and dirt-free, especially on lights and signals. And make sure to wear a helmet and protective gear. Helmets are the law in BC for both motorcyclists and passengers, but they can go a long way in helping to keep you safe in the event of a crash.
If you’re in a motor vehicle, always be alert to your surroundings. Motorbikes are smaller than cars and can be harder to see than others sharing the road with you. Remember to check your blind spots, signal before turning or switching lanes, and give bikers enough room to get around or make sudden stops. They may be small, but they’re still going at the same speed as the rest of the traffic.
No matter what you’re driving or riding, never ever drive impaired and leave your phone alone. Both slow your reaction time and decrease your ability to make last-second judgments and adjustments.
And finally, take the Motorcycle Safety Pledge. The Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada wants everyone on the road to make motorcycle safety a priority not just in May but every day. Take the pledge and then share it on social media using #MotorcycleSafetyPledge to show your support on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
For more information
- Motorcycle Safety: The Rider and the Gear, BC Government
- Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC), MCC website
