CPS and province warn Albertans to keep an eye out for motorcycles

The warmer weather brings some new road users to the Alberta pavement every spring: Namely, motorcyclists.

Both the Calgary Police Service and the Government of Alberta have issued releases within the past week to warn Albertans to be aware of motorcycles out on Alberta’s roadways.

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According to the Government of Alberta release, May is deemed Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, with Transportation Minister Ric McIver stating that the safety of motorcyclists is also in the hands of vehicle-driving Albertans.

“I would like to remind all motorists of the role they play in keeping motorcyclists safe. Motorcycles are often hard to see and require extra room to prevent serious accidents,” McIver, a rider himself, said in the statement.

“When motorcycles crash, their riders lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle and are more likely to be injured or killed. In a typical year, about 30 motorcyclists die and more than 650 are injured on Alberta roads. We have already lost three riders so far in the 2019 season.”

He also provided a few tips to keep in mind while out driving this spring and summer:

“Drivers should keep motorcyclists in mind when changing lanes or following close behind,” he said.

“Riders can protect themselves by monitoring road and gravel conditions, manoeuvring with caution and always wearing protective gear. When riders and drivers respect each other, the motorcycle season is a safer one.”

The Calgary Police Service release also noted that two motorcycle riders were killed as a result of crashes in Calgary in 2018, and they provided their own list of tips for those riding motorcycles as well as drivers behind the wheel:

For motorcycle operators:

• Adhere to the rules of the road.
• Stay out of blind spots. Make sure other drivers see you.
• Be alert at intersections. Make eye contact with other drivers/riders before making your move.
• Protect yourself with the right gear and wear an approved motorcycle helmet, regardless of temperature or length of trip.
• Remember that when it comes to other drivers, your speed can be easily misjudged.
• Ride defensively and make every effort to enhance your visibility.
• Be aware of what is going on behind you.

For drivers of other vehicles:

• Adhere to the rules of the road.
• Share the road – look twice for motorcyclists at intersections or when changing lanes.
• Never underestimate the speed of a motorcycle. Their size makes their speed deceptive.
• Always check your blind spot before changing lanes.

Drive — and ride — safe out there, Calgary!