By BC Highway Patrol

May is BC Highway Patrol’s motorcycle safety campaign month. With summer coming up fast, motorcycles will be enjoying the highways in higher volumes.

Every year there are, on average, 2,400 collisions involving motorcycles with June, July, and August being the most dangerous months for motorcycle riders.

To help prevent collisions and fatalities, BC Highway Patrol will have all patrol officers on hand from May 17 to May 21, as well as an abundance of overtime officers. National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day is May 18, and police across the country will be targeting impaired drivers and riders.

To be a safer rider this May:

• Practice riding before going on a longer trip if your bike was put away for the winter;
• Take breaks often, drive sober, and have the right gear to be prepared for all weather;
• Slow down and scan every intersection before entering;
• Report drivers who are operating unsafely around you to your local police;
• Wear visible clothing in the dark and avoid riding in poor weather.

“We need to work together to eliminate fatal collisions, if you see someone driving or riding while distracted, excessively speeding, or if you suspect a driver or rider is impaired, please document the licence plate, if possible, and call your local police,” said Cpl. Melissa Jongema, BC Highway Patrol Media Relations Officer.

“Let’s ride to stay alive and to arrive safely to our long weekend destinations.”

BCHP photo

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