Spring brings motorcycles back to Alberta roads – and with them, a reminder of what’s at stake.
Alberta RCMP is calling on riders and motorists to look out for each other as the season ramps up. Last year, 288 collisions involving motorcycles were reported across RCMP jurisdiction in Alberta. Those crashes left 259 people injured and 16 dead.
Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services, said May is historically one of the most dangerous months for riders.
“Last May saw 45 motorcycle collisions, making up approximately 16 per cent of the total for last year,” said Turnbull. “Look out for each other on the roads. If you’re in a vehicle, make sure to complete a full check before changing lanes to ensure motorcycles and smaller vehicles aren’t in your path.”
The numbers are sobering nationally, too. Transport Canada reports that while motorcycles make up only about three per cent of registered vehicles, they are involved in 10 per cent of road fatalities.
Every ride should start before you swing a leg over the seat. RCMP recommends completing a pre-ride check of fluids, tires, lights, signals and chains. Alberta Transportation’s Rider Guide includes a full checklist.
If a bike has been sitting over winter, a qualified mechanic should check it before it returns to the road, according to ICBC road safety advisors. The Canada Safety Council also recommends pacing long rides, staying hydrated, and limiting daily distance to 300 to 500 kilometres to allow for proper rest breaks.
There are no shortcuts when it comes to protective gear. Alberta law requires all riders and passengers to wear an approved helmet. Most crashes happen at speeds around 50 km/h – and helmets are highly effective at preventing head injuries at those speeds, according to the Canada Safety Council.
Full-face helmets offer the best protection. Jackets and pants made from abrasion-resistant materials like leather or Kevlar with built-in armour, durable gloves, and ankle-covering boots all reduce injury risk. Avoid buying used helmets – hidden defects can compromise protection. Alberta.ca also recommends earplugs for highway riding, where wind noise can cause fatigue and permanent hearing loss over time.
Visibility is one of the most effective safety tools a rider has. A motorcycle’s single headlight can make riders appear farther away than they are, especially in low-light conditions, according to Alberta RCMP. High-visibility jackets and helmets in orange, yellow or white help. Reflective tape on wheel rims can make a motorcycle appear larger to other drivers at night.
The Canada Safety Council advises riders to communicate through proper signals, lane positioning and brake lights – and to try to make eye contact with drivers at intersections.
The top contributing factors in motorcycle crashes are distraction, speed, and rider error or confusion, according to ICBC. Riders are urged to stay out of blind spots and never assume another driver has seen them. Speeding and weaving between lanes is both illegal and dangerous.
Alberta roads carry extra risks at the start of riding season. Gravel and sand left over from winter treatments, potholes from freeze-thaw cycles, and sudden weather shifts are all hazards riders must watch for. Wildlife crossings are a concern on rural roads in and around the Lloydminster area. Railroad tracks should be approached at a right angle to reduce the risk of skidding.
Skills also fade over a long winter. ICBC road safety experts recommend practising low-speed manoeuvres like emergency braking and obstacle avoidance in an empty parking lot before returning to regular riding. Government-approved motorcycle courses are available for riders at any experience level.
“We can all work together for a safe riding season,” said Turnbull. “Be aware of each other out there.”
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