ICBC launches motorcycle awareness campaign

ICBC is starting a public awareness campaign in May 2006 to raise awareness of collisions involving motorcycles.According to the ICBC, in 2004, about 1,250 people were injured and 43 were killed in motorcycle-related crashes. Many fatalities are the result of drivers failing to see motorcyclists when turning in intersections, an ICBC press release states.”We want to reduce injuries and fatalities, and make B.C. roads safer for everyone,” John Les, the B.C. solicitor general and minister responsible for public safety, said in a press release to kick off the campaign.”When it comes to cars and motorcycles, it’s a two-way street,” Les said. “Drivers should actively look for motorcyclists, but at the same time, motorcycle riders need to make sure that they are making themselves as visible as possible to drivers.”ICBC research shows that crashes involving motorcycles tend to fall into two categories: urban and rural collisions.In urban areas, crashes most often occur at intersections involving an oncoming vehicle, typically turning left in front of a motorcycle.In rural areas, single-vehicle crashes where the motorcyclist loses control and runs off the road are more common; these tend to occur at higher speeds and on curves.ICBC is asking motorists to “be extra cautious for motorcyclists, especially when turning at intersections. Actively look for motorcyclists in traffic.”ICBC advises motorcyclists to “slow down when approaching intersections [and] never assume other motorists see you. Wear bright and reflective clothing. Add extra reflective material to your clothing or wear a reflective vest.”