It’s been a deadly year for motorcyclists on provincial highways.
Based on preliminary data, 30 people died in motorcycle crashes from January through July 2018, with 18 in July alone.
This is more than double the number of motorcycle-involved deaths occurring from January to July 2017, according to BC Coroners Service.
“Our goal is to prevent deaths in similar circumstances by raising awareness of the fatalities and sharing preventative measures, so everyone can get to their destination safely. We urge all drivers on B.C. roadways to exercise caution and take time to plan ahead,” said Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner.
Motorcyclist speed and impairment continue to be the leading contributing factors. The majority of those killed (83 %) in the accidents were from BC, and nine out of ten killed were male.
The interior and Fraser health authority regions has the highest number of deaths
“The British Columbia Coalition of Motorcyclists has been deeply concerned and saddened by the alarming amount of fatalities involving motorcyclists this year,” said Tara Briscoe, manager, BC Coalition of Motorcyclists.
“We hope that by raising public awareness on the matter that this number will decrease and that we can finish this riding season with fewer casualties. Everyone deserves to make it home to their families after a ride.”
