With the warmer weather coming, there will be many riders getting out their motorcycles to enjoy the season, and the OPP is cautioning all drivers to be careful, watchful and safe. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has already responded to four (4) fatal motorcycle collisions this year and is urging riders and other motorists to avoid contributing to a repeat of last year’s tragic motorcycle season.
Last year marked one of the worst riding seasons in more than 10 years, with 42 motorcyclists killed on OPP-patrolled roads. There were 27 fatalities in 2019.
OPP collision investigators pointed to excessive speed and failing to yield right-of-way as lead contributing factors in the deaths. Two of this season’s motorcycle fatalities are also linked to excessive speed.
“Aggressive and careless driving have no place on our roads, especially where motorcycles are involved. The OPP urges motorcyclists and other drivers to share the road safely and be alert. Motorcyclists are reminded to always ride responsibly, sober and drug-free, and to make themselves visible to other motorists. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Please help make it a safe riding season,” said, Chief Superintendent Rohan THOMPSON, Commander, OPP Highway Safety Division.
QUICK FACTS
In 2020, 37 of the 42 fatal motorcycle crashes investigated by the OPP involved no other vehicles. Almost half (20) of last year’s 42 motorcycle fatalities involved riders aged 55-74 years.
