Released on May 6, 2009
To promote motorcycle safety throughout the province, Crown Corporations Minister Ken Cheveldayoff has proclaimed the week of May 9 to 16, 2009, as Motorcycle Safety Week in Saskatchewan.
The purpose of the week is to encourage safe riding and to raise awareness of the importance of having proper motorcycle training.
"Motorcyclists are almost five times more likely to sustain injuries in a crash than drivers of passenger vehicles," Cheveldayoff said. "SGI encourages all motorcyclists to take a safety training course. Courses teach defensive riding strategies and risk awareness skills that can help motorcycle riders avoid collisions."
Motorcycle Safety Week is sponsored by the Saskatchewan Safety Council.
"The best way to prepare for a safe ride is to ensure you have the proper knowledge, skills and training," Saskatchewan Safety Council's Executive Director Harley Toupin said. "The Saskatchewan Safety Council has provided motorcycle safety education to new and experienced riders for over 30 years. By educating the province on motorcycle safety, our goal is to prevent serious injuries and save lives."
Last year in Saskatchewan, five people were killed and another 211 were injured in motorcycle collisions.
"Considering the riding season in Saskatchewan is only five to six months long, these statistics are quite alarming," Cheveldayoff said. "For your safety, and the safety of everyone on the road, take a motorcycle safety course."
For more information on motorcycle safety and the training courses available, visit SGI's website at www.sgi.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Hambleton
SGI
Regina
Phone: 306-751-1360
Email: khambleton@sgi.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-8901