OPP Shining a Light on Motorcycle Safety

Wednesday, 7 May 2025 06:36

The OPP reported 57 motorcyclist fatalities in 2024.

ONTARIO - Now that we're starting to experience the warm spring temperatures, you might spot a lot of motorcyclists on the roads out there.

Today is the last day of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Week.

A total of 57 motorcyclist fatalities were reported on OPP patrolled roads in 2024, the highest number in two decades. Excessive speed, losing control, failing to yield right of way, improper passing, and driver inattention were the leading causes and contributing factors of the crashes.

In a video posted on the OPP West Region X page on May 1st, Sergeant Ed Sanchuk said it's not always the motorcyclists fault.

"The 18 riders that were not at fault in the fatal collisions that took their lives are a stark reminder that even the safest motorcyclists are vulnerable to motorists who fail to share the roadway."

It's important the drivers remember to check their blind spots, signal their turns and always be aware of motorcyclists on the road.

Conrad Vitalis is a member of the Golden Helmets, the OPP's precision motorcycle riding team. In a video posted on the OPP West Region X page yesterday, he offered this piece of advice to motorcyclists out there.

"I ride thinking that everyone is out to get me. It may sound a little paranoid but that way you're keeping in mind where your position is in relation to other vehicles, whether you're in a blind spot, how long you're in a blind spot, and if you're passing a vehicle or it's passing you."

He adds just because it looks like the driver is looking right at you, doesn't mean they actually see you.

Your bike is running smoothly and you have the right safety gear, but are you mentally ready to ride? Cst. Conrad Vitalis is a member of the OPP's precision motorcycle riding team, the Golden Helmets. Here's more on how your mental state behind the handlebars has an impact on… pic.twitter.com/pCtnSvTZC3
— OPP West Region (@OPP_WR) May 6, 2025