As temperatures climb and more motorcycles hit the road, B.C. Highway Patrol is warning drivers to slow down and stay alert — or face stiff penalties.
Throughout May, police officers province-wide will ramp up patrols as part of the annual High-Risk Driving and Motorcycle Awareness Campaign, targeting impaired driving, excessive speed, distracted driving, and seatbelt violations.
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“There are two keys to keeping motorcyclists safer,” said Cpl. Michael McLaughlin of B.C. Highway Patrol. “Number one, motorcyclists need to slow down and drive defensively. Number two, every other motorist needs to pay attention and consciously look for motorcycles so that collisions can be avoided.”
Motorcyclists are urged to ride within their skill level, look into advanced rider training, and never get behind the handlebars while impaired, tired, or distracted.
Speed is a particular concern as the weather improves. “Just because the weather is nice and roads are dry, that does not give you permission to speed,” Cpl. McLaughlin said. “In collisions, speed kills.”
B.C. Highway Patrol will also pay special attention to what it calls the most dangerous weekend of the year on provincial roads — the May long weekend.
All motorists are advised to watch for an increase in motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians; budget extra time behind slower recreational vehicles and through construction zones; and drive sober and free of distractions.
Drivers who ignore those warnings could face serious consequences. Penalties for excessive speeding and other high-risk behaviours include 30-day vehicle impoundments, $483 tickets, and thousands of dollars in towing and insurance surcharges.
“Public safety is our top priority,” Cpl. McLaughlin said. “We would much rather write you a ticket for excessive speeding or aggressive driving than have to tell your loved ones that you died in a collision.”
