Summer road safety

With the return of warmer weather comes the return of vehicles with only two wheels – motorcycles and bicycles.

It’s important for drivers to learn how to share the road with motorcycles and bicycles so that collisions, and in turn deaths and injuries, can be avoided.

"Many motorists don’t realize that the law treats bicycles like any other vehicle on the road," says Shannon Ell, SGI’s Supervisor of Traffic Safety Promotion. "Cyclists are not permitted to use the sidewalk. That means bicycles are required to use traffic lanes and should be given the same consideration as any other vehicle. The same goes for motorcycles – they should be treated with respect."

Ell says that in turn, bicycle and motorcycle riders must follow the rules of the road and be courteous to other drivers.

Most motorcycles are wired so their headlights are on at all times, and many bicycles have safety reflectors to make them more visible. But because of their small size, bicycles and motorcycles can be difficult to see. Ell recommends that during cycling season, motorists check twice before changing lanes or making a turn – once for cars and trucks, and once for bicycles and motorcycles.

"When a bicycle or motorcycle collides with a four-wheel vehicle, the cyclist is at high risk for being severely injured or killed," says Ell.

Ell also points out that as with any other vehicle, drivers should never tailgate motorcycles or bicycles. Following too closely may cause a rider’s attention to be distracted from the road and traffic ahead. As well, bad weather and slippery surfaces cause greater problems for motorcycles or bicycles than cars. Motorists should allow more following distance when the road is slippery or wet.

It’s also important for drivers to remember that motorcycles require a full traffic lane, so motorists should never pass or drive alongside a motorcycle in the same lane. When sharing a lane with bicycles, drivers should use caution and courtesy and give the cyclist as much room as possible while passing them.

"Being aware of these situations can help drivers share the road safely with all cyclists," says Ell.

Contact: Shannon Ell
Supervisor, Traffic Safety Promotion
SGI
Regina
(306) 775-6179

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Summer road safety
It’s important for drivers to learn how to safely share the road with motorcycles and bicycles so that collisions, and in turn deaths and injuries, can be avoided.