Motorcycle Awareness Month

Over the next few weeks, more than 12,000 Nova Scotians will blow the dust off their helmets, fire up their motorcycles and take to the streets. Nova Scotia's transportation minister is reminding them to put safety first.

"Motorcycles are a popular form of transportation for many Nova Scotians," said Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "Because of vehicle design, motorcyclists face risks over and above operators of cars and trucks. All motorists must be aware of motorcycles, their drivers and their passengers."

For the fourth year running, the province has proclaimed May as Motorcycle Awareness Month. The goal is to encourage riders to receive proper training and to encourage all motorists to be aware of motorcyclists.

In 2003, the Registry of Motor Vehicles registered 12,580 motorcycles, an increase of more than 700 over the previous year. Over the last five years, from 1998 to 2003, the province has recorded an increase of about 10 per cent in the number of people licensed to ride a motorcycle.

While motorcycles have become more popular, the fatality rate associated with motorcycle use has decreased. In 2003, three people died in collisions associated with motorcycles, compared to seven in 1999.

"The Nova Scotia Safety Council offers motorcycle training programs from May until September," said Noel Facey, traffic safety coordinator for the Nova Scotia Safety Council. "More than 1,100 people complete our courses each year, learning how to handle their vehicles safely and responsibly."