ICBC warns drivers to watch motorcyclists ‘for clues’

British Columbia’s government-run auto insurer is reminding motorcycle riders to ensure their helmets display proper labels and warning vehicle operators that motorcycle turn signals can be hard to see.

If a motorcycle rider “shoulder checks or the motorcycle leans, the rider is probably planning to change lanes, adjust lane position or turn,” Insurance Corporation of British Columbia stated in a press release Friday.

“Watch the rider for clues,” ICBC warned drivers. “Sometimes a motorcycle’s turn signals are hard to see.

ICBC also alluded to provincial law requiring that motorcycle helmets comply with either the United States Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218, Snell Memorial Foundation standards or United Nations Economic Commission for Europe standards.

“Be sure it displays the proper label and meets safety-helmet labelling requirements,” stated ICBC, the provincial crown corporation from whom all vehicle owners in B.C. must purchase basic coverage. “When turning left – look for oncoming motorcycles,” ICBC warned drivers.

“Motorcycles can be hard to see, especially at night, at dusk, in bad weather or in heavy traffic,” ICBC advised. “The safest choice is to yield the right of way to an oncoming rider as it can be hard to tell how fast they’re travelling.”

ICBC also advised motorcycle riders to wear either safety vests or clothing with fluorescent material or reflective striping.

With its Gear it or Shear it video series, ICBC compares ordinary street clothing to proper motorcycle gear.