Safety top of mind for central Alberta motorcycle riders

More motorcyclists prompts safety reminder It's that time of year where the temperature is rising, and more riders on motorcycles are hitting the streets.

It’s the time of year where the temperature rises, and more riders on two wheels hit the streets.

Motorcycle enthusiasts have set up shop in Red Deer’s Parkland Mall for a special event where safety is top of mind.

Brian Barr of the Central Alberta Vintage Motorcycle Group said with sunshine and dry roadsdriverscan expect to start seeing a lot more motorcycles gearing up for riding season: “We can be out there pretty early in the year.”

And that’s exactly why five different organizations are set up at Parkland Mall, to make more people aware that they’ll soon be out in full force.

“This is just a good opportunity to get it in the forefront of people's minds that it is that season of spring, and motorcycles are coming out,” said Barr.

While May is officially Motorcycle Awareness Month, RCMP said it's never too early to think about road safety.

“We forget about them because we don't see them all year. So we need to be very respectful of them, and likewise the motorcycle drivers need to be respectful of us,” said Corporal Karyn Kay with the Red Deer RCMP.

Mounties offered up some tips to be kind to two-wheelers, including leaving more room for motorcyclists and checkingblind spots more often. As well for those on a bike, Kay says don’t say in the centre of a lane, to have an exit strategy and dress to be seen.

“We need to take care of each other and we need to respect people on the road and be cognizant of our surroundings,” said Kay.

That's a sentiment Alberta Motorcycle Training Co-owner and Instructor Scotty Watters agrees with He's encouraging new motorcyclists to get proper training. “It's a safety aspect and to make you aware that the majority of people on the road are not aware of you, so you more of less has to be more aware than a standard vehicle driver.”

Over the years Watters says he's had several close calls. He hopes drivers on four wheels take time to learn how to safely share the road, and adds the skills a motorcycle driver can learn through a course: “Is worth your life.”

The public is encouraged to stop by Parkland Mall to check out the bikes on display and to learn more about safety for all drivers. The campaign runs until March 25.