The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has issued safety tips for motorcycle riders venturing to Friday the 13th in Port Dover, as well as to anyone riding this season.
The Port Dover run “is not for people who have little or no experience in group or highway riding. Make sure you are ready for it.” That was the warning from Steve Kee, IBC’s Director of Media and Digital Communications, who is a rider, himself, and made the trek to Port Dover.
“Riding a motorcycle requires skill, control and a different level of focus than when driving a car – for example, knowing how to brake safely while leaning into a turn,” Kee added. Motorcycle sales are up, which means new riders on the road this summer.
Here are some tips from IBC for a safe “Friday the 13th” and riding season :
- Get professional training
- Maintain your bike
- Dress for the fall, not the ride
- Wear bright colours or reflective material to make you more visible to motorists.
- Stay sharp. Keep your eyes moving and do frequent shoulder checks.
- Scan the road surface ahead of you.
- Mind the gap. Leave an adequate gap between you and the car in front of you.
- Be seen. Always signal lane changes and position yourself where others on the road can easily see you.
- Always have a way out. Identify potential hazards as you ride.
Go here for the full media release and tips.