Motorcyclists urged to ride defensively as deaths climb: OPP

A motorcycle is towed on Friday, April 3, 2015 after a crash on Highway 400 near Highway 88. (Steve Mansbridge/ CTV Barrie)

So far in 2015 there have been 25 motorcycle fatalities on OPP-patrolled roads and police are asking riders to keep safety in mind.

Four of the deaths all happened in the first week of August in southern Ontario.

In addition, 22 of the fatalities were drivers while only three were passengers and most of the deaths - 15 - involved people ages 45-65.

For all of 2014, there were 32 motorcycle deaths on OPP-patrolled roads, which was a nine-year high for the province.

Now OPP are appealing to riders be 'defensive drivers' in order to keep themselves safe.

Part of that includes 'driving as if you are invisible,' to deal with the fact that drivers in larger vehicles often don't notice motorcycles, especially at intersections.

In addition, OPP recommend being aware of other motorists at all times and being prepared to avoid their mistakes as well as staying out of blind spots.

The OPP is also reminding all drivers to keep a watchful eye out for motorcycles.