As summer rolls in, police ask all road users to share

_ (press release) _ (Ottawa)- In May, Safer Roads Ottawa (SRO) partners focused on motorcycle safety. The enforcement effort was aimed at drivers who make unsafe lane changes, excessive noise, speeding, race or stunt driving.

All road users and motorists are reminded to continue to watch for motorcycles, which can be harder to see on roadways. Between May 25 and June 1, there have been five collisions involving motorcycles.

Motorcycle riders are reminded to: *       Ride predictably and defensively *       Do not pass vehicles within the lane *       Ride in a staggered formation; and *       Keep a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles

“All road users are responsible for following the rules of the road.  Whether you are driving, cycling or walking, give it your full attention; make road safety a part of your behaviour every day,” said Ottawa Police Traffic Sergeant Mark Gatien.

Summer weather attracts a variety of road users. For everyone’s safety, share the road, pay attention and follow the rules of the road.

Between May 25 and June 1, police received 19 reports of cyclist/vehicle collisions and 11 pedestrians struck.

Ottawa residents have identified traffic safety as a top priority. The Safer Roads Ottawa Program is committed to using available resources to make Ottawa roads safer for residents. The Safer Roads Ottawa Program is a leading community partnership between Ottawa Fire Services, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Ottawa Police Service, Ottawa Public Health and the Public Works Department committed to preventing or eliminating road deaths and serious injuries for all people in the City of Ottawa, through culture change, community engagement, and development of a sustainable safe transportation environment.