A crash in Brampton on Friday night left one motorcyclist in hospital in serious condition — just one of several collisions overnight involving motorcycles on GTA roads now that the biking season has begun.
Three of the crashes happened in Toronto.
Sgt. Kerry Schmidt with the OPP says there is spike in motorcycle collisions each spring and in 2015, there were over 31 fatalities due to motorcycle incidents.
“Obviously, there are a lot more bikes on the road. Everybody wants to get out and enjoy the outdoors,” Schmidt said.
“The problem is the roads could still be cool and if your tire pressure is not 100 per cent, it’s easy for you to lose control.”
READ MORE: Man killed in North York motorcycle crash
Doug Goss, managing partner at Toronto motorcycle dealer Motoretta said he’s had a couple of close calls when out riding his motorcycle.
“I was going through an intersection and a cab swerved out in front of me and he suddenly stopped and I had to swerve very suddenly very aggressively to avoid hitting him,” he said.
“It was scary.”
In the springtime, cars forget what it’s like driving with motorcycles on the road, Goss added.
“They aren’t used to the visual. So motorcyclists need to vigilant and we need to be aware.”
Motorcycle instructor Jenn Haars said before motorcyclists head out on the road, it’s important for riders to take their bike out for a test spin.
“You’re kind of rusty. So you have to strengthen those skills again and it’s making yourself visible and aware, wear your safety gear and get out and practice,” Haars said.
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