THUNDER BAY -- High visibility is the emphasis on this year’s motorcycle safety month.
The ‘Can You See Me Now’ campaign launched by the Thunder Bay Police Service and the Motorcycle Safety Training Organization is encouraging reflective gear to be worn by local motorcyclists.
“Though the black clothing is really nice and stylish, it’s very difficult for the motoring public to distinguish you on the roadway,” said acting traffic Sgt. Bill Pollock on Thursday.
A 2004 study in the British Medical Journal found that motorcyclists are 37 per cent less likely to be involved in a collision when wearing reflective gear.
“The first thing the driver usually says is ‘I didn’t see the motorcyclist’” said Pollock, who also works as a collision expert.
“They don’t have the same cocoon around them that other vehicles do,” said motorcycle safety training president Greg Stein. “They certainly are more vulnerable.”
This is why police and motorcycle enthusiasts are asking the public to ditch the black for something a little more shiny.
“It’s available, and it’s actually fairly stylish stuff,” Pollock said.
The campaign is also urging drivers of other motor vehicles to help by being aware.
“Take that extra second to look around. That extra second saved won’t matter wherever you’re going.”
