LETHBRIDGE- This time of year is a constant reminder of the friends Dallas Harty has lost in fatal motorcycle collision.
He keeps memorial arm bands tied to his handlebars, with the names of his motorbike friends who have passed away.
“I ride with them on my handle bars. It’s my way of remembering them and taking them with me wherever I go, something I wish I didn’t have to do,” says Harty.
Harty is the president of the southern Alberta Bikers Association. He’s been riding motorcycles for over 20 years and says this time of the season is one of the deadliest for bikers.
“There is sand and gravel on the road still. Drivers are out of practice, and I think awareness is the biggest thing. Four wheels and two wheels alike need to watch out for one another.”
Lethbridge Regional Police have responded to three collisions this year involving motorbikes. On Wednesday night, a man was sent to hospital with minor injuries after being hit by an alleged drunk driver.
“A person ran into the back of a motorcycle and was injured, he had a broken arm. We are asking drivers to be aware of the bikes out there and give them some space,” says Cst. Ross Bond with LRPS.
Motorcyclists and drivers are equally responsible for sharing the road and ensuring public safety.
“For the bike, he also has to be aware he’s moving faster, he can stop shorter and he needs to be aware of what he’s doing,” adds Cst. Bond.
Harty says no matter how long or short you plan on riding, it’s important to wear the proper gear.
“Boots, chaps, gloves and a helmet are important. You see people riding around in shorts and flip flops and that is not proper gear.”
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