Alberta RCMP urge caution as motorcycle season begins

With motorcycle season underway, Alberta RCMP are reminding riders and motorists to watch out for one another on the road.

Last year, Alberta RCMP jurisdiction recorded 288 reported collisions involving motorcycles. Those crashes caused 259 injuries and 16 fatalities.

Police say May is a particularly dangerous month. Last May alone saw 45 motorcycle collisions, roughly 16 per cent of the annual total.

"We can all work together for a safe riding season," said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull of Alberta RCMP Traffic. "Look out for each other on the roads. If you're in a vehicle, make sure to complete a full check before changing lanes to ensure motorcycles and smaller vehicles aren't in your path."

RCMP offered the following tips for riders:

Complete a pre-ride check. Inspect fluids, tires, lights, signals, chains and the overall condition of the motorcycle before each ride. Alberta Transportation's Rider Guide includes a checklist.

Gear up. Riders and passengers must wear helmets that meet safety requirements and display the date of manufacture. A proper coat, pants, ankle-covering boots, gloves and shatter-proof eyewear all reduce injury risk. Police advise against buying used helmets, which may have defects.

Stay visible. Keep out of the blind spots of larger vehicles. A high-visibility jacket and helmet in orange, yellow or white make riders easier to spot.

Keep a safe following distance. Watch for loose gravel, rocks, debris and sand, which can affect tire traction and handling.

Avoid speeding and weaving. Speeding in and out of traffic is both illegal and dangerous. Safe handling and sharing the road responsibly cut the risk of a collision.

Don't show off. Slow down on unfamiliar roads and don't feel pressured to keep up with more experienced riders.