As the summer months approach and temperatures warm up, the riding season is about to begin, and road users can expect to see an increase in the number of motorcycles on the road.
To mark Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the New Brunswick RCMP is reminding drivers and riders to exercise extra caution, respect, and share the road.
"Many motorcycle accidents happen when other drivers don't see them," explains Corporal Hans Ouellette of the New Brunswick RCMP. "It's imperative to respect motorcyclists' space and right of way. Unlike motorists, motorcyclists don't enjoy the relative safety of a closed vehicle or a seatbelt."
The New Brunswick RCMP reports that there were 9 fatalities involving a motorcycle in 2023. Some common contributing factors leading to a motorcycle collision noted by police across the province continues to be the visibility of the motorcycle and driver, aggressive driving and inexperience.
Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, which is why drivers should always make sure the intersection is clear before proceeding, and to be extra cautious when turning left.
"Motorcyclists must, of course, adopt safe driving habits, but that doesn't absolve other road users of their responsibilities," added Corporal Ouellette. "Everyone on the road is responsible for safety, and this applies to passenger cars, trucks, pedestrians and motorcyclists."
New Brunswick RCMP data from 2023 shows that out of the 9 fatalities, nearly 40% of the collisions were related to speed, and that another 25% of the riders were not wearing a helmet. It is important to always wear a government-approved helmet, to avoid riding in a vehicle's blind spot and to keep a safe driving distance.
During the busy motorcycling season, don't forget to also check twice to save a life.