Motorcycle safety promoted in July

Bowen Dolhan would like to see more automobile drivers aware and on the lookout for motorcycles, especially as the RCMP promotes motorcycle safety for the month of July.

“There’s no doubt about it that it’s safe,” said the manager of Jasper Motorcycle Tours. “It’s definitely a safe mode of transportation if it’s approached right.”

As the number of motorcycles on the road increases with the summer weather, the RCMP is aiming to decrease of bike-related injuries and deaths, primarily by enforcing areas such as speed, safety, and impaired and aggressive driving.

Dolhan said two fewer tires means quite a few more risks.

“You’ve got to be so concerned about everybody else and watching for any potential hazard,” he said. “Most drivers aren’t looking for motorcycles, they’re looking for a bigger object.”

Bikers are encouraged to drive defensively, make eye contact with other drivers at intersections, be aware of what’s going on all around, positions themselves to be seen and realize other drivers often misjudge their speed.

“The biggest part is people not seeing you,” Dolhan said, adding that awareness is especially important in Jasper, a major motorcycle destination.

To ensure its clients’ safety, Jasper Motorcycle Tours hired an instructor who specializes in sidecar training to teach its drivers. It also provides the necessary equipment including helmets, leathers and eye protection.

The RCMP will engage in enforcement initiatives throughout the month as well as attempt to raise awareness about the positive aspects of motorcycling as a sport.