Summer in Atlantic Canada is the perfect time to hit the open road on two wheels. But with that freedom comes responsibility. On July 17, Higgins Insurance gathered a panel of experts for an important conversation about motorcycle safety. Sgt. Evan Scott from the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force, Sheila Koester (Higgins Insurance Commercial Lines Manager), Rebecca Smith (Higgins Insurance Digital Client Manager) and Jeff Cronk (Vice President CURO National Claims) shared their insights on how riders can stay safe—and keep insurance costs down.
Here’s what they had to say, along with practical tips for riders of all experience levels.
1. Gear Up: Dress for the Slide, Not the Ride
As Rebecca Smith emphasized, the right gear can save your life.
Motorbike Helmet: A government-approved, full-face helmet is non-negotiable. It protects your most vital organ—your brain. Fun fact? Nearly 20% of helmet impacts in a crash are on the chin.
Gloves: Motorcycle gloves protect your hands from both abrasion and impact. Choose pairs with knuckle protection and a secure wrist strap.
Motorbike Boots: Never ride in sneakers or sandals. Motorcycle-specific boots offer ankle protection and grip for controlling the bike.
Motorbike Pants & Jacket: Look for abrasion-resistant materials (like Kevlar) and ventilation for hot days. Integrated armour at the elbows, shoulders, hips, and knees can significantly reduce injury.
Wearing shorts and a T-shirt on a scooter might feel cool—but it’s not safe. Rebecca reminded us that gravel driveways, blind spots, and unexpected road hazards don’t discriminate. Dress like you might fall.
2. Know Your Bike—and Be Seen
Sgt. Evan Scott shared key lessons from years of experience on the road. His #1 tip? Know your bike.
“It’s not just a vehicle—it’s a finely tuned, articulated gyroscopic machine. And if you don’t know how it handles in different situations, you’re at risk.”
Practice regularly, especially if you’re a seasonal rider.
Do a pre-ride inspection: Check for oil leaks (often found in the middle of the road), tire pressure, working headlights, and fluid levels.
Walk around your bike before every ride—get to know it like a partner.
Sgt. Scott also stressed the importance of visibility. Wear bright colors, keep your headlights on, and always assume drivers don’t see you. In fact, many drivers are distracted—on their phones, adjusting GPS, or simply not expecting a motorcycle. Learn more in our interview with Sgt. Scott here: 🔗 Distracted Driving Awareness Month with Sgt. Evan Scott
3. Ride Responsibly—Especially with Friends
Sheila Koester brought the conversation home, emphasizing responsibility, especially when riding in groups.
Staggered Formation: Riding side-by-side might look cool but reduces space to maneuver. Staggering improves visibility and safety.
Collision Avoidance: Be alert at intersections, keep a safe following distance, and always provide space for others.
Group Safety: Communicate with signals and gestures. Don’t pressure less experienced riders to keep up with the pack.
Scooter Riders: Sheila pointed out that many scooter riders—especially young ones—neglect safety gear. Shorts, flip flops, and T-shirts won’t help in a crash. Even if you’re “just going around the corner,” gear up.
Sheila’s father was a proud member of the Red Knights International Motorcycle Club, a group of firefighters who promote motorcycle safety and community support. Learn more about the Red Knights here: 🔗 Red Knights International Motorcycle Club
4. Weather, Roads, and Real Hazards
All our panelists stressed this: the road can turn on you in an instant.
Hot Weather: Summer heat can create slick tar strips, overinflate tires, and increase fatigue.
Rain & Hydroplaning: The first 10 minutes of rain are the most dangerous. Ride with extra caution in grooves, at merges, or near construction zones.
Gravel & Oil: Watch for fluid buildup in the middle of lanes. On country roads, wildlife can appear without warning—especially at dawn and dusk.
Jeff Cronk added that while riding through Cape Breton, he observed real-world motorcycle safety in action: hand signals, respect for weather, and pulling over when visibility dropped.
“The group formations, clear gestures, and readiness to stop during rainstorms were all signs of smart, seasoned riders. It’s a great reminder that safety is built from habits.”
Check out Suzanne MacNeil’s travel notes on her road trip to Cape Breton Island: 🔗 Nova Scotia: Coastal Wonders, Cultural Roots, and Unforgettable Road Trips
5. New Rider? Start with a Course
Whether you’re riding a Ninja 400 or a Vespa, formal training is a must. A certified motorcycle safety course builds confidence, teaches crash-avoidance skills, and may even reduce your insurance premium.
Explore training programs in Atlantic Canada:
You can also check out this helpful guide: 🔗 How to Ride Safely: 4 of the Best Motorcycle Safety Tips
Final Thoughts: Ride Smart, Ride Safe
Motorcycles are about freedom, but freedom only lasts when it’s coupled with responsibility. Sgt. Scott, Sheila, Rebecca, and Jeff all agree: safety is a team effort—between you, your fellow riders, and the drivers you share the road with.
So before you fire up the engine, ask yourself:
Have I checked my gear?
Have I checked my bike?
Am I alert, rested, and ready?
Am I riding for the thrill—or for life?
At Higgins Insurance, we believe in helping riders protect what matters most.
📞 Need a motorcycle insurance quote or a second opinion?
We’d be happy to help. Reach out at 1.866.237.2911 or visit higginsinsurance.ca.
Stay safe. Stay sharp. And we’ll see you on the road.