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By Curtis Galbraith

Traffic Safety

Motorcycle, bicycle safety focus for Enforcement Services in May

May 8, 2019 | 5:30 AM

Motorcycle and bicycle safety will be the focus for Grande Prairie Enforcement Services’ Selective Traffic Enforcement Program and Bylaw Enforcement Education Program this month.

Sergeant Ross Gear says they want to draw attention to motorcycles because, so soon after winter, people are not used to seeing them on the roads.

“They are a smaller vehicle. We have to share the road. We have to watch for them. Motorcyclists are very good, they drive defensively, they try to get everybody’s attention. But, at the same time, they are a smaller vehicle, you might not see them.”

He is asking motorists to watch out for motorcyclists, give them some extra room, and watch for them when turning or changing lanes.

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“In a collision, a person in a car or truck, you’re encased in steel, right? The chances are it’s not going to be nearly as bad. When you’re on a motorcycle, you’re not going to have that protection, so people on motorcycles have to drive extra-defensively.”

Gear adds anyone riding the bicycle on the street is subject to the same rules of the road as someone driving a vehicle.

“You have to stop at a stop sign. You have to stop at a red light. You have to yield at a yield sign. You follow the rules of the road. If you’re going to use the sidewalk, which is also an option, then you have to follow the same rules as any other pedestrian.”

Gear says anyone under 18 riding a bicycle must wear a helmet and it is a good idea for any cyclists 18 and over to do the same.