NEWS RELEASE
YORK REGIONAL POLICE
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Rising temperatures means increasing numbers of motorcycles on our roads, including York Regional Police motorcycle operators.
Motorcyclists are reminded that your riding skills have diminished over the winter months. Use extra caution always, but especially on your first few rides and be mindful that sand, salt and debris left over from winter may still be on our roadways.
Motorcyclists and their passengers are also reminded of the importance of wearing an approved safety helmet. Protective wear, including glasses, can prevent or reduce the severity of injuries in a collision. Wearing reflective materials will help keep you visible at all times, including inclement weather or during times of low light and low visibility.
Drivers of other vehicles are urged to check blind spots twice for motorcycles before making turns or lane changes. Motorcycles often reduce their speed by down shifting which means you may not have the visual warning of a brake light when a motorcycle is slowing down. Remember, a motorcycle is a vehicle too.
Motorcyclists have the right to travel in a designated lane and all vehicles must share the roadway. In the event of a collision, the driver of a motorcycle does not have the same level of protection as the drivers of other types of vehicles. We all need to be mindful of their safety.
More than one-third of motorcycle collisions occur at intersections. Approach slowly, ensure you look in all directions and proceed with caution. This caution applies to both motorist and motorcyclist alike.
York Regional Police is also reminding residents that go-peds, miniature motorcycle, also referred to as ‘pocket bikes’ and other off-road vehicles are not street legal and must not be driven on the road.
For more information on how to stay motorcycle safe, contact the Road Safety Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext.7703.
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