Biking in the spring and summer means a rise in motorcycling accidents in Ontario. That trend has unfortunately stood true for many years now. And while Ontario’s roads are becoming safer, motorcycle accident fatalities continue to hover around the 300 per year mark, according to the OPP.
2020 has not started off well for bikers. If the cold and wet weather hasn’t dampened spirits, the continuing Covid-19 lockdown certainly has, as non-essential travel is discouraged. Unsurprisingly, motorcycling events are also being cancelled or postponed till the lockdown ends proper. Given Pace Law and our members are so heavily invested in the motorcycling scene, we are saddened to hear that Rideau Rendezvous 2020 has been cancelled and will return in 2021. Pace Law is a regular promoter of the event and after last year’s attempt to break a world record, this year’s event would have upped the ante even higher.
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So how do you bike safely in 2020?
There are a couple of things that may affect road safety for motorcyclists in Ontario.
- First, there are no changes to riding laws (despite an April Fool’s story about helmets not being mandatory – that’s not true, thankfully)
- Some Ontario highways may be about to see raised speed limits
Highway collisions are amongst the most common motorcycle accidents and raising the speed limit is unlikely to help that. Take care to maintain extra distance between traffic when merging and make sure the driver in the other vehicle sees you before you make your manoeuvre.
Given the coming of summer and the end of the lockdown are expected to coincide, don’t be lackadaisical about wearing protective gear. Proper helmets and riding gear reduce the risk of injury and reduce the severity of injuries.
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Not wearing a helmet is not an option no matter how experienced you are!
Keep these riding tips in mind:
- Reduce the number of trips you make and limit riding to essential trips and occasional outings
- Leave plenty of space between yourself and vehicles around you
- Avoid incidents that cause rage behind the wheel (you and other drivers)
- Be mindful of the weather, it’s been a chilly spring
Pace Law Firm is committed to helping the rider community stay safe as we gear up for a ‘new normal’ once the Covid-19 lockdown ends but social distancing remains in place. If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, speak to our motorcycle accident lawyers immediately. We help riders receive the treatment they need and are experienced in brain and spinal injury matters.