Blog

May signals the start of Motorcycle Safety Month, a nationwide initiative aimed at raising awareness among all road users. This year’s campaign centres on the people behind the helmets, reminding us that every rider is a real person. It underscores our collective responsibility to ensure safety on the roads and trails. In recent years, there has been a notable surge in interest in motorcycling, particularly among young and female riders. As of the latest data, Canada boasts 708, 700 motorcyclists, with Ontario alone home to 212, 610 riders. With a growing number of new and returning riders taking to the roads and trails this spring, prioritizing safety is paramount. In today’s blog, we’ll explore the various ways riders can enhance safety during their journeys, from ensuring they have the appropriate motorcycle safety gear to securing adequate insurance coverage.

The Importance of Motorcycle Safety

Every year, Motorcycle Safety Month serves as a reminder of the critical need for caution on the roads, especially for motorcyclists. The statistics paint a sobering picture: In 2023, there were a concerning 8,475 reported motorcycle accidents across the country, marking a troubling 9 percent increase from the previous year. Shockingly, 11 percent of these accidents resulted in fatalities. Zooming into Ontario, the situation remains grim. The province saw a total of 3,876 reported motorcycle accidents in 2023, comprising roughly 17 percent of all vehicle accidents provincewide. This marked a 6 percent uptick from the prior year, with 8.7 percent of these accidents proving fatal. Motorcycle accidents often yield more severe injuries compared to other types of crashes due to the inherent lack of protection for riders. With motorcyclist riders exposed and less shielded, the risks of serious harm in a collision are heightened. Alarmingly, the rate of motorcycle accidents per registered motorcycle far surpasses that of car accidents per registered car, underscoring the heightened risk motorcyclist riders face on the road. As interest in motorcycle riding grows, so too does the importance of understanding these risks. Motorcyclists face increased vulnerability due to their reduced visibility to other drivers, heightening the potential for accidents caused by other vehicles misjudging their presence or speed. Furthermore, the differences in maneuverability between motorcycles and cars mean that operating a motorcycle requires a higher degree of skill and balance. Any misstep in judgment could spell disaster, making awareness and caution paramount for all riders.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

 Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common in Canada, including Ontario. Understanding the main causes of motorcycle accidents in Canada can help both riders and drivers stay safe on the roads.

• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speeding and reckless driving are significant contributors to motorcycle accidents. High speeds leave less time for both motorcycle riders and other drivers to react to potential dangers, increasing the risk of accidents. 

• Driver Inattention and Distraction: Distracted driving is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. When motorists are not paying attention to the road, they may fail to notice motorcycles, leading to collisions, some of which can be fatal. 

• Unsafe Lane Changes: Failing to check blind spots or signal appropriately before changing lanes can pose a serious risk to motorcyclists. Sudden lane changes can catch riders off guard and result in serious accidents. 

• Impaired Driving: Whether due to drugs or alcohol, impairment can severely hinder a motorist’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Impaired drivers are more likely to cause accidents, including those involving motorcycles. 

• Left-Turn Accidents: Several motorcycle accidents occur when vehicle operators make left turns without properly yielding to oncoming motorcycles, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities for the rider. Motorcyclists are at high risk of these accidents given their smaller size and at times, reduced visibility.
  
  
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Poor weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog can make for slippery roads with limited visibility, increasing the risk of motorcycle accidents. Hazardous road conditions can also include poorly maintained roads with potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces, which can cause motorcycle riders to lose control. 

• Inadequate Training and/or Experience: Lack of proper training and experience is another factor contributing to motorcycle accidents. Inexperienced riders may not be familiar with handling their motorcycles in various situations, making them more prone to accidents and impeding biker safety. 

6 Motorcycle Safety Tips to Improve Biker Safety 

1. Make Sure you Have Proper Motorcycle Safety Gear

When you’re out riding your Harley, your attire is more than just a fashion statement– it’s a crucial factor in your safety. The most important piece? Your helmet. Not only is wearing one the law, but it can also save your life. Remember, your head, face, and chin experience the biggest impact if you get into a collision. With so many options available, finding the right helmet is critical. Make sure it fits snugly and stays put when you shake your head. Avoid novelty helmets– they might look cool, but they won’t offer much protection in a crash. To ensure biker safety, covering your arms and legs with leather or heavy denim is an absolute must. Not only does this protect against road rash, but it also helps prevent dehydration. Additionally, opt for boots or shoes that cover your ankles and are made of leather or similar material for optimal protection. And don’t forget gloves– they’ll give you a better grip on the handlebars and protect your hands in an accident. You want them to be thin enough so that you can effortlessly grip and use the controls on your bike but thick enough to protect your hands in the event of a crash. 

2. Check to Make Sure the Motorcycle is Well-Maintained 

Before taking off on your motorcycle, some maintenance checks are required. To start, make sure the tires have the right pressure and enough tread, and test the brakes, headlights, signals, and fluids. From there, look under the bike for any signs of oil or gas leaks. If you’re carrying any bags or loose items, secure them properly and balance the load by adjusting the suspension and tire pressure. Riding with a passenger? Make sure they get on after you start the engine and they sit forward, behind you, with their feet on the footrests. Be sure to remind them to keep their legs away from the muffler and hold on tight. They should move as little as possible and lean with you when turning to ensure a smooth ride.

3. Never Ride Impaired 

Alcohol and drugs mess with your ability to make good decisions, control your motorcycle and react quickly. They also make you less alert and slow down your reaction time. Even if you’re not under the influence, you can’t predict what others might do on the road, so it’s crucial to stay sober. You need to be fully focused when operating a motorcycle. 

4. Ensure Optimal Visibility on The Road 

Before you cruise away, consider if your motorcycle safety gear is visible enough. Many accidents occur because drivers fail to spot motorcycles. Increase your visibility by wearing brightly coloured clothing with reflective materials. Additionally, add reflective tape around your wheel rims and on parts of your motorcycle closest to light sources to make it appear larger at night. Whether you’re riding through city streets or highways, avoid blind spots and position yourself where drivers can see you. Motorcycles can be hard to spot in rear-view mirrors, so find a lane where you’re visible to all vehicles. If a car is tailgating you or failing to slow down, tap your brakes to signal your position and distance. Making eye contact with drivers can also help them notice you, just remember to stay attentive to the road to avoid accidents. 

5. Ride Responsibly and Defensively 

Always follow all traffic signals, signs and speed limits and stay in the correct lanes. Ride with the flow of traffic, maintaining a safe distance between your motorcycle and other vehicles. Complete a thorough check of your surroundings and signal before changing lanes. Remember to ride defensively, as many accidents occur when other drivers fail to notice motorcyclists. Be cautious at intersections and yield to pedestrians and other vehicles when necessary. As a responsible motorcycle rider, practice legal speed limits and avoid taking unnecessary risks. As discussed earlier, excessive speeding is a leading cause of fatal motorcycle accidents. Given the bike’s limited stability and traction, going beyond the speed limit puts riders at significant risk of losing control. 

6. Take a Government-Approved Safety Course 

For beginners, mastering motorcycle riding goes beyond just getting a license. It’s crucial to undergo government-approved safety training to develop the necessary skills. These hands-on sessions help motorcycle riders learn how to control the bike effectively and build confidence in their abilities. Even if you’re not a complete beginner, a review course can still be beneficial. After a few months off the road, it’s normal to feel rusty. A refresher course can help you regain your skills and hit the road again with renewed confidence and safety. 

The Importance of Motorcycle Safety Training 

While not mandatory for riding on Ontario roads, enrolling in a government-approved motorcycle safety course can greatly benefit riders. These courses not only promote safe and responsible driving but also allow riders to take their road tests sooner. Typically, riders with an M2 licence must wait 22 months before taking their second road test. However, completing a recognized Motorcycle Safety Course shortens this wait to just 18 months. These courses cover a wide range of skills, including motorcycle control, hazard avoidance, and situational awareness. Available for full-speed motorcycles, limited-speed motorcycles (like scooters), and motor tricycles, these courses equip riders with essential skills to prevent accidents and minimize injury severity in the event of a crash. They also teach motorcycle riders how to navigate various road and weather conditions safely. Without proper safety training, riders are more prone to accidents, and the injuries sustained can become more severe. Additionally, without sufficient training, riders may not fully understand the legal and insurance implications of an accident.

Benefits of Taking a Government-Approved Motorcycle Safety Course 

Once completing safety training, motorcycle riders gain several advantages:

• Enhanced control: Training teaches riders effective bike control, covering steering, braking, and acceleration. This helps riders avoid common mistakes like excessive braking or acceleration and improper cornering.

• Hazard avoidance: Another key component of motorcycle training is recognizing and avoiding potential road hazards. This includes obstacles, road debris, and other road users such as pedestrians, cars, and other motorcycle riders. These skills are essential for accident prevention and biker safety.

• Situational awareness: Training emphasizes maintaining situational awareness and anticipating potential dangers. This involves monitoring traffic, weather conditions, road conditions, and other road users, enabling motorcycle riders to respond appropriately in challenging situations and prevent accidents. 

How Motorcycle Insurance Can Protect You 

Similar to enrolling in a motorcycle safety course, having motorcycle insurance is crucial for staying safe on the road. Without it, you’d be left vulnerable to cover costly repairs or replacements if something were to happen to your motorcycle, like an accident or theft. Motorcycle insurance provides you with ultimate peace of mind, offering financial protection in case of unexpected events so you can fully enjoy your rides. Below are some common types of coverage you’ll often find in motorcycle insurance policies.

• Liability Claims: Helps protect motorcycle riders financially if they cause injury or damage to another person’s property or vehicle while riding their motorcycle.
  
  
• Uninsured Motorists: This coverage helps pay for damages to a motorcycle if they are caused by an identified uninsured motorist. It can also provide benefits to the rider or their family if the motorcyclist has been injured by an uninsured or unidentified driver.
  
  
• Accident Benefits: If motorcycle riders are injured in an accident, this coverage helps to replace any lost income or pay for medical, or any other expenses not covered by government health insurance.

Speak to an Experienced Acumen Advisor About Motorcycle Insurance 

During Motorcycle Safety Month, it’s crucial to prioritize biker safety on the road, especially as a rider in Ontario. Whether you’re a seasoned motorcyclist or new to the open roads, staying safe is paramount. Take heed of the above motorcycle safety tips to ensure a secure ride. Plus, don’t forget the importance of insurance coverage. Experience what Acumen can do for you– Get a customized insurance quote for your Ontario motorcycle to protect yourself and your ride! With decades of experience as an insurance company in Stoney Creek, Hamilton, Burlington, Mississauga, and the surrounding communities, our brokers are committed to providing guidance, education, and expertise to our clients. We prioritize customer satisfaction and are here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to get started.