Sharing the Road with Motorcycles: One Road, One Community

Whether you're on two wheels or four, we're all heading to the same place. Let's make sure we get there safely together.

Spring is here, and with it comes motorcycles getting back on the road. For riders, it's feeling the wind in your hair after a long winter,  and enjoying the freedom of the open road. As we welcome motorcyclists back to the road, our CAA Niagara team wants to remind riders and drivers to take extra safety precautions on the road this spring.

We all Have a Right to the Road

The road isn't a competition for space; it's a shared path we're all travelling together. And when we treat it that way, everyone gets home safely.

That starts with a little awareness, a bit of patience, and a few good habits. Here's some tips on both riders and drivers can do their part. 

For Riders: Be Seen, Be Vigilant 

It’s important to be visible, take ownership of your space and always keep a comfortable buffer around you. These simple steps gives you room to react and helps drivers notice you clearly. Despite being the smallest vehicle on the road, you still have a right to your lane. Claim it and use it fully!

• Make mirrors your best friend. Before slowing down, stopping, or turning, check your mirrors and scan all directions.
  
  
• Be easy to spot. Bright clothing and a light-coloured helmet go a long way. At night, ease up on your speed near other vehicles, and steer clear of blind spots. An easy antidote to knowing if you're visible:  if you can't see a driver's mirrors, they likely can't see you either.
  
  
• Take intersections at your own pace. There's no rush, you want to feel confident and comfortable in all your movements. Slow down early, position yourself where you're visible from all directions, and make sure your sightlines are clear before you proceed.

For Drivers: A Little Awareness Goes a Long Way

Welcoming motorcyclists back to the road is as simple as a few small adjustments to your everyday driving:

• Give them the full lane. Motorcycles are entitled to a complete lane, just like any other vehicle. 

• Check your blind spots like you mean it. Because of their size, motorcycles can be easy to miss in your mirrors. A proper shoulder check before every lane change can make all the difference.

• Follow at a comfortable distance. Motorcycles can brake faster than you might expect. A little extra following distance keeps everyone relaxed and safe.

  It's simple to help motorcyclists feel safe on the road. Small changes in your habits help everyone get home safely.