The VPD is reminding you to be careful whether you're riding, walking or driving

Police are issuing a reminder as they see an uptick in crashes involving motorbikes

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Now that temperatures have warmed up, you’re probably seeing more motorcyclists on the road but that comes with a warning.

5 motorcycle safety tips for drivers (it’s Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, you know!). pic.twitter.com/Op5SIcNw2y — BC Transportation (@TranBC) May 12, 2018

Not wanting to single out any one group, Vancouver Police Sergeant Jason Robillard says they’re asking people to be really careful whether they’re riding, walking or driving.

He adds the onus falls on everyone to look out for one another. That’s a message that’s been repeated before and Robillard says it’s worth reminding people to be self and hyper aware of their surroundings as more people hit the road, especially those on two wheels.

“The biggest thing we like to say is while from a motorist’s perspective is to be seen. Wear bright, reflective clothing, durable boots that cover your toes, things like that.”

Being visible is also important if bikers are planning to ride at night. “If you look at one headlight coming at you it might not just be a vehicle with a headlight out, it could be a motorcycle. So you need to be aware not only if you’re driving the motorcycle but if you’re driving a vehicle that there is an increase of motorcycles on the road and at night it’s even harder to see them.”

He acknowledges that often people feel the driver is blamed for a collision, but says bikers need to do their share as well.

“If you’re driving a motorcycle make sure that the drivers are going to see you that you aren’t in their blind spot. Do things like use your signals, also ride at a safe speed and definitely never drink and drive. You also want to watch other drivers on the road for cues. You need to assume that these drivers won’t anticipate a motorcyclist’s or cyclist’s movements because you’re relatively small and drivers often won’t see you. So, if you assume they don’t see you, you might drive a little more defensively.”

If loud bikes bother you — an issue that’s raised every spring and summer — Robillard adds officers tend to warn first but can hand out $109 ticket for unnecessary noise.

ICBC stats show over a five-year average, ending in 2016, there were 2,400 crashes involving motorcyclists province-wide.