A surge in motorcycle fatalities in Nova Scotia this year has sparked urgent appeals for safety measures by advocacy groups. The province has witnessed sixteen motorcyclist deaths in 2025, marking the highest toll in the past decade. The victims include a young hockey prodigy, a recent retiree, and a long-married couple, representing a diverse range of community members. Marlene Roach, the founder of Bikers Down Society, a support group aiding injured bikers, stresses the need for immediate government intervention to address the escalating crisis.
Roach advocates for mandatory pre-licensing training for all motorcyclists and restrictions on the types of bikes younger riders can operate. She emphasizes the vulnerability of motorcyclists in accidents and calls for heightened awareness among all drivers, particularly when turning left at intersections. Corey Ford, a collision reconstruction expert with Nova Scotia RCMP, highlights preventable factors contributing to motorcycle fatalities, such as distracted driving and failure to use safety gear. Ford emphasizes the importance of proper emergency braking techniques and individual responsibility in ensuring road safety for all motorists.
Achieving a year with zero fatalities remains the ultimate goal, according to Ford, who underscores the necessity for vigilance and mutual respect among all road users. By promoting awareness, training, and responsible driving practices, stakeholders aim to reduce motorcycle-related tragedies in Nova Scotia.
