With warmer weather returning, Durham Region and DRPS are reminding all road users to prioritize safety—especially as motorcyclists face a significantly higher risk in collisions.
According to the region, about 63 per cent of motorcycle collisions result in injury or death. Through the Durham Vision Zero initiative, the region and its partners aim to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities, striving for a future with zero road deaths.
Durham officials are urging both motorcyclists and drivers of other vehicles to take extra precautions to help prevent collisions.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists:
- Inspect your bike before every ride – Check tires, oil, brakes, and lights.
- Wear protective gear – Helmets approved for use in Ontario with chin straps fastened, full-coverage jackets and pants, motorcycle gloves, ankle-supporting boots, and high-visibility or reflective clothing. Some get knee braces.
- Stay alert and undistracted – Avoid impairment and maintain full focus on the road.
- Be aware of your surroundings – Don’t assume you’re visible to other drivers; always be prepared to react.
- Obey traffic laws – Follow speed limits and all road signs and signals to reduce crash risks.
Safety Tips for Drivers:
- Scan surroundings frequently – Use mirrors and check blind spots often.
- Signal and shoulder check – Especially before lane changes and turns.
- Leave space – Maintain a safe following distance behind motorcycles and give ample room when passing.
- Don’t misread lane positioning – Motorcyclists often shift within their lane; this doesn’t always indicate a lane change.
- Use caution at intersections – These are common sites of motorcycle collisions; avoid sudden turns or lane shifts.
Durham Region emphasizes that all road users share responsibility in ensuring motorcycle safety.
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