My motorcycle lights are not flashing

 

It’s important to share the road with motorcyclists.

“Drivers play a large role in motorcycle safety. On a motorcycle, a rider is vulnerable. Be aware of motorcyclists on the road and give them the space they need. Motorcycle riders need to concentrate on the road and make sure other drivers see them,” says Alberta Transportation . “Over five years, 3,415 motorcycles were involved in casualty collisions. These collisions resulted in 155 deaths and 3,548 injuries.” Alberta Transportation cautions riders to stay out of blind spots. The Transportation office urges motorists to look twice for motorcycles at intersections and while changing lanes.

Mike Morin, a local motorcycle rider, knows what it’s like to share the road with vehicles, and the importance of being noticed. He explains a key safety feature of his motorcycle.

“My motorcycle lights are not flashing,” says Morin. “They are modulating. You may have noticed motorcycle headlights modulating. We are not being show offs or want to be annoying. We are simply trying to be noticed. Many times when a motor vehicle collides with a motorcycle, the driver says ‘I never saw him’.”

The modulating lights are legal. Morin explains, “In the United States, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108, which regulates all automotive lighting devices and systems, permits motorcycle headlamp modulation systems provided they comply with the performance, operation, and durability requirements contained in Canada’s analogous regulation. Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 likewise permits headlamp modulators that meet the same technical requirements as those in force in the USA.”

The modulating lights protect everyone on the road. “Since 1978, motorcycles in Canada and the United States have been wired to operate the low-beam headlamp whenever the engine is running. This is not required by any federal regulation but rather is a matter of voluntary industry policy. However, as increasing numbers of vehicles are equipped with daytime running lights, a daytime-illuminated motorcycle headlamp may no longer provide a significant benefit, therefore, the choice of modulating headlights.”

Summer is a great time to be out on the road and motorcyclists know this warm season is a short one. Let’s all share the road so everyone can enjoy their summer and get home safely.