May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and based on a number of local incidents, a few reminders for the motoring public may be necessary.
Last year marked a particularly tragic riding season and the highest number of motorcyclist deaths since 2017, with 44 riders losing their lives in collisions on OPP patrolled roads.
And unfortunately the OPP’s West Region, which covers both St. Thomas and Elgin County, accounted for 19 of those 44 deaths.
Failing to yield right of way, excessive speed and inattentive driving are among the leading contributing factors in OPP-investigated motorcyclist fatalities over the past 10 years.
The data speaks to poor and careless behaviours on the part of riders and other drivers, with motorcyclists at fault in 61 per cent of the fatalities, and drivers of other vehicles at fault in 39 per cent of the deaths.
The OPP note that curbing last year’s spike in motorcyclist fatalities is as simple as riders and drivers maintaining safe space and driving habits around each other at all times.
With Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month underway, the OPP is reminding motorcyclists and other motorists to be responsible, defensive, attentive, and alcohol/drug-free drivers throughout the riding season. Motorcyclists are reminded to wear bright, protective equipment and clothing to increase their visibility to other motorists.
Every driver doing their part will help ensure Ontario citizens and visitors have the safe, enjoyable summer that awaits them!
