Ride motorbikes safely
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Updated: July 23, 2009 3:29 PM
If you think you’re such a great rider, ease up on the throttle a bit – the odds are against you.
According to the RCMP and ICBC, there are, on average, more than 2,000 motorcycle crashes in B.C. every year.
In Canada the average age of a motorcycle buyer is 46 years old, and many of them ride the most expensive and powerful machines.
The Community Against Preventable Injuries, a non-profit group with several corporate sponsors, says the best way to ride safely is to take a B.C. Safety Council course.
In 2007, more than 780 motorcyclists were hospitalized in B.C. – 15 riders every week.
Most motorcycle crashes occur on weekends, from May to September, with peaks in July and August
Motorcycle crashes also tend to occur during peak traffic hours, between noon and 9 p.m. Helmets prevent head injuries in 67 per cent of crashes and prevent deaths in 29 per cent.
Safety tips:
• One in every five motorcycle crashes results in head or neck injuries for the rider.
Wearing a helmet can often reduce the risk of suffering a severe injury. In B.C., all motorcyclists and their passengers must wear helmets.
• Make yourself visible
• Watch out for vehicles turning at intersections.
• Check vehicles approaching from behind when stopped in traffic.
• Slow down and take it easy on the curves.
• Don’t assume other motorists can see you.
• Wear clothing that will protect you from the weather and debris.
• Add extra reflective materials to your clothing or wear a reflective vest.
• Always wear an approved safety helmet.
• Don’t drink and ride.
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