Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
Now that the snow is finally gone and the warmer weather has arrived, Calgary motorcycle enthusiasts are anxious to be back on the road again. Sharing the road responsibly and safely with motorcycles is not only very important but is easy to do. With safety in mind, the following are a few vital tips drivers should know.
With motorcycles being the smaller and more open vehicle, their riders are more vulnerable than other vehicles as they don’t have safety equipment such as airbags and seatbelts. Their only form of protection is their helmet and any other clothing they may be wearing.
Speaking Of Turns
A vehicle making a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle is one of the most common causes of collisions between motorcycles and vehicles. Motorists should always scan the intersection looking twice before turning as motorcycles are easily overlooked especially at twilight. Stay extra vigilant during evening rush hour, as this is when the majority of motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur.
Watch Out for Blind Spots
It is crucial to always do a good visual check before changing lanes to make sure your own blind spot is clear and there isn’t a motorcycle passing you. This is especially important before making right- or left-hand turns. Motorcycles can be hard to see in your mirror because of their smaller profile and the difficulty in judging their speed. It’s also important when doing your lane checks to look out for a second rider! Motorcyclists are allowed to ride side-by-side in a lane going in the same direction according to the Motor Vehicle Act of Alberta.
Be Alert and Keep Your Distance
When following behind a motorcycle, always maintain a distance of at least three seconds. Motorists need to have enough separation should a motorcyclist slow down or stop suddenly. And remember, because motorcycles can downshift to a lower speed, you won’t necessarily see brake lights come on.
Being a Responsible Driver Means
Ditching the distractions! Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Seconds of distracted driving is not only deadly for riders but can result in a serious collision.
On The Motorcycle
A few notes from the desk of Cst. Jeffery Leimer, Calgary Police Traffic Unit.
As a rider, we must re-tune our riding skills from the lost months of winter while watching out for the debris on the roadway. As motorists, we must remember that the bike is a smaller object that can accelerate and stop faster than most cars. This awareness must be for both drivers.
A Rider Must
Obtain a class 6 license to ride on their own by taking the two tests, an aptitude test and a practical test. As a first-time, inexperienced rider looking for a bike to buy, don’t extend your skills and get a large bike. Start off with, and gain that important experience, with a smaller one.
Like cars and trucks, the motorcycle must have a license plate clear and visible (not tucked under the seat), and signal and brake lights are not to be one unit. Signal lights must be separated and defined as separate. A helmet must be either ECE, DOT, or SNELL approved which will be clearly marked.
Violations: Possible Charging Sections for License or Equipment Violations
• Operate M/V without proper license 51(b) $324
• Turn signals not mounted latterly as possible 23(3)(b) $81
• Helmet does not comply with standards 108(1) $162
• Fail to keep license plate visible 71(1) $162
Final Thought
Road safety is the responsibility of all road users. With everyone staying alert and aware of their surroundings, we can all enjoy the roads safely!
This summer, stay safe and have fun!
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