St. Albert RCMP responded to their first motorcycle collision of the spring last Friday on Lester Crescent.
A motorcyclist was cut off by a truck. The rider hit the curb and fell off the motorbike onto the road. The motorcyclist was transported to hospital by ground ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries.
Traffic officers remind all vehicle drivers to share the road safely with motorcycles. Motorcycle crashes peak during summer months as warmer weather and optimum road conditions attract more two-wheeled motorists to the road.
Motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, harder to see and do not offer the protection of a frame, seatbelts or airbags. To help prevent a crash with a motorcycle, drivers are encouraged to follow the following tips.
Vehicle drivers
- Scan intersections carefully, and take extra time to look for motorcycles when turning left.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions that take your mind off driving.
- Keep your eyes on the road at all times.
- Allow at least three or four seconds of following distance when travelling behind a motorcycle and plenty of lane space when passing.
- Be ready to yield. Motorcycles are often closer than they appear. Remember, it can be hard to tell how fast their speed is.
Motorcyclists
- Practice emergency braking and avoiding obstacles
- Be seen. Do your best to stay out of a driver’s blind spot.
- Watch drivers for clues. Never assume they see you or will give you the right-of-way. They may not have accurately judged your distance or speed.
- Use signals. Let drivers know your plans so they can anticipate your next move and react in time.
- Plan your path prior to a curve.
- Ride at a safe speed.
The public is encouraged to report any criminal or suspicious activity to the RCMP Detachment at 780-458-7700. If you see a crime in progress dial 911. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.P3Tips.com.
