Warm weather and fairly empty roads are enticing motorcycle riders to dust off their bikes and head out on the highway more often these days.

The freedom to ride comes with some extra precautions this year with COVID-19 travel restrictions still in place.

RCMP Media Relations Officer Corporal Ron Bumbry explains that May is Motorcycle Safety Month in Alberta and all drivers need to pay attention to safety as they travel.

"As we welcome spring weather across the province we do want to remind Albertans to minimize non-essential recreational travel, as all health orders regarding physical distancing remain in effect." said Bumbry.

Bumbry says while the traffic is lighter on the road there are still other obstacles to be aware of and he cautions riders to refresh their skills before they encounter high traffic areas or the highway.

"We also want to remind our motorcyclists out there, as they dust off their bikes after a long winter, to adopt safe riding behaviours and try to reduce the risk of collisions." said Bumbry.

Bumbry cautions riders to keep a safe distance from other motorists as well as to remember they are smaller than other vehicles.

"They do need to remember to stay out of blind spots, especially in parking lots and to try and keep others aware of their presence as much as possible." explained Bumbry.

He recommends riders gear up by wearing a helmet, durable weather-proof clothes and shatter proof eye protection.

Bumbry says the onus for safety is not just for motorcycle riders and he reminds other motorists they have a responsibility too.

"For the person in the vehicle please take a look around to locate where that motorcycle is in all of their mirrors to ensure the safety of all and be cautious when they are actually changing lanes." said Bumbry.

Bumbry says in 2019 there were 17 fatal collisions involving motorcycles in Alberta and he says motorists should expect to see more motorcycles on the highway in the warmer months

In a release from the RCMP, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services Superintendent Gary Graham, says safety is their primary concern.

"Our officers continue to be on the lookout for dangerous riding behaviours to keep Albertans safe during the ongoing pandemic." stated Graham.

According to the news release the Alberta RCMP say they will continue to work with Alberta Sheriffs and other law enforcement and safety partners to ensure Albertans make the right driving and riding decisions.