World Motorcycle Day emphasizes road safety

TORONTO, June 21, 2016 /CNW/ - Today is World Motorcycle Day (WMD), an annual opportunity to celebrate "turning the throttle" while practising road safety. As the days and nights get longer, it's the perfect occasion to ride – as Lionel Richie would say – all night long.

On WMD, riders congregate at local motorcycle dealerships, beaches and other meet-up points to share in the fun. This global event is also an opportunity to highlight the importance of safety for everyone on our roadways. 

"Motorcycle sales are increasing in Canada, and all drivers must be aware of the role they play in keeping the roads safe," said Steve Kee, Director of Media and Digital Communications for Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), and a motorcycle enthusiast.

"One day last fall, I was cut off by an SUV who I believe was distracted," he continued. "I lost control of my bike and slid for about 50 feet. The bike was a write-off. The whole situation was very scary." Steve talks about the accident in an IBC video.

"I tell everyone who drives – whether in a car or truck, or on a motorcycle – to keep distractions to a minimum. Your eyes must be on the road at all times for your safety and the safety of those around you."

To help keep families and communities safe across Canada, IBC is committed to raising awareness of the habits that can contribute to dangerous driving habits. Here is IBC's Top 10 Tips for Road Safety for drivers. For motorcycle riders, here is IBC's Motorcycle Safety brochure and also Motorcycle Insurance tips.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 120,000 Canadians, pays $8.2 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $49 billion. 

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

To schedule an interview, please contact: Ellen Woodger, Consultant, Media Relations, 416-483-2358, [email protected]