Motorcycle season is here, so the Alberta RCMP is reminding riders and other drivers to be aware of one another on the roads to ensure everyone makes it home safely.
According to police, last year, there were 235 collisions involving motorcycles in Alberta RCMP jurisdiction alone, with 26 of those being fatal.
The RCMP says safety starts before you even get on your bike. Police suggest taking some time before riding to check your fluids, tires, lights and signals, and the overall condition of the vehicle to make sure there are no surprises once you hit the road. Additionally, riders are reminded that both you and your passenger must wear a helmet that meets safety requirements and states the date of manufacture.
Once you hit the road, law enforcement says riders should be bright and in sight by wearing high visibility jackets and helmets, maintaining a safe following distance, and avoiding loose gravel or rocks.
When it comes to the actual rules of the road, police are reminding riders that behaviours like weaving, speeding, and stunting is illegal, dangerous, and carry hefty consequences.