May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Nova Scotia

To raise driver awareness of increased motorcycle traffic on Nova Scotia roads, the province and Safety Services Nova Scotia have proclaimed May Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks read the proclamation to motorcyclists at a ceremony in Fall River today, May 4.

"Motorcycles have a special appeal to many Nova Scotians, but there are also special safety factors that all drivers must be aware of," said Mr. Estabrooks. "For instance all drivers, whether of motorcycles or other vehicles, need to be alert and take a second look before proceeding from a stop or turn."

"At the beginning of 2011, there were 25,710 motorcycles registered in Nova Scotia," said Ed Snow of Safety Services Nova Scotia. "We recommend that all motorcyclists take a training course and wear proper equipment."

There have been two motorcycle fatalities in Nova Scotia in 2011, nine in 2010, and 42 during the last five years.

"Those numbers are unacceptable," said Mr. Estabrooks. "We all have a responsibility to keep our roads safe for all users."

"Even though motorcycle awareness is everyone's responsibility, it's the motorcycle user who is most at risk in collisions," said Mr. Snow. "Designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is intended to help drivers realize the importance of being extra alert at this time of year."

More information on motorcycle safety and training courses can be found on the Safety Services Nova Scotia at www.safetyservicesns.com .