Riding Safely

You may have noticed more two-wheeled vehicles on the road since the weather has warmed up; however, a rise in motorcyclists on the road also means a rise in accidents. While motorcycle accidents are high in general during the summer months, they peak in August according to data from Allstate Insurance Company of Canada.
 
“In August people should not become complacent just because they have been riding for a few months,” says motorcyclist Jason Foroglou of Allstate Canada. “Every time I get on my own bike, I make sure it is in good shape and that I’m wearing all the necessary protective gear.”

To help keep your summer riding as risk free as possible, Allstate Canada has prepared the following motorcycle safety tips:

1.  Get the proper gear. Choosing your riding gear is not a time to save money; the gear you choose can reduce injury or save your life if you are in an accident. Remember to purchase a jacket, a helmet that meets current safety standards, pants and gloves. Consider getting a jacket with padding in the elbows and shoulders and a full face helmet. Ensure your protective gear does not interfere with riding or controls and remember a hot day doesn’t mean it’s acceptable to cut down on protective gear.

2.  Wear bright colours. To make yourself clearly visible to other motorists wear colours such as red, yellow or orange or reflective clothing.

3.  Be seen. Never assume that other drivers can see you. Other motorists that have collided with motorcycles often say they did not see the motorcycle until it was too late.

4.  Watch for wildlife. Other drivers aren’t the only thing you need to consider. Wildlife such as deer and moose can cause harm to you and your bike. Remember that deer travel in groups. One deer means there are probably more, so even if you see one off to the side of the road, slow down immediately and proceed with caution.

5.  Plan ahead. Check the weather forecast to avoid riding in poor weather conditions.  If you do get caught in the rain, decrease your speed.

6.  Tune up. Regularly. Your motorcycle should be in excellent working order. Be sure to continually check your tires, brakes, steering components and lights. 

7.  Position yourself properly. If you are in the right lane, you should be slightly to the left of centre, and in the passing lane you should be slightly to the right of the centre. This provides good visibility and blocks other vehicles from trying to squeeze by you in the same lane.

8.  Reduce distractions. Your focus should be on the road at all times. Whether you are navigating a busy city or a rural winding road, avoid external distractions, such as a radio.

9.  Be aware at intersections. Getting hit by an oncoming vehicle that’s turning left is one of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes. Always enter intersections with caution.

10.  Always be sober. We know it goes without saying, but we will say it again. Never drive your motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to a study from Transport Canada, from 2003-2005 almost 95 per cent of motorcycle drivers killed in alcohol-related crashes had been drinking.  Drugs (including prescription drugs) can also affect your ability to drive a motorcycle safely. Make sure you know the effects of any drug before you drive.

For more information about how you can protect yourself or your motorcycle, or to speak with Jason Foroglou, Allstate’s official spokesperson, please contact:

Jennifer Fox
Thornley Fallis Communications
T: 416.515.7517 x 350 
fox@thornleyfallis.com