Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month: Constable Tania Saunders

May 27, 2026 - Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, British Columbia
From: Coquitlam RCMP

Content

This Motorcycle Safety Month, Coquitlam RCMP is providing safety tips and insights from behind the handlebars with Constable Tania Saunders.

“It is a different type of riding when working and riding for personal time. When working I am always looking for driving infractions and concern for traffic safety from all drivers on the roadway. When riding personally, I am continually aware of my surroundings to ensure my own safety, but I can also enjoy the ride and the scenery.” 

Safety Tips:

As her top safety tip, Cst. Saunders says, “Always look ahead and never assume drivers in the vehicle see you.”

Some additional tips include:

• Wear all the gear, all the time
• Stay out of driver’s blind spots and use signals to communicate intentions
• Manage speed and leave room to brake or steer clear of hazards
• Brush up on emergency braking and obstacle avoidance, especially after time off the bike

About Constable Saunders:

Cst. Saunders has the distinction of being the only woman certified as an RCMP motorcycle operator in the Lower Mainland. 

“I completed the RCMP Motorcycle program in 2021 in Kelowna. I ride the Road King and do most of my traffic enforcement on the motorcycle with weather permitting.” In fact, Cst. Saunders prefers riding the motorcycle over driving a car.

In addition to her RCMP experience, Cst. Saunders has been riding motorcycles since she was young and currently owns a 2021 Harley Davidson Street Glide limited. 

“I have done road trips around BC with a friend and enjoyed all aspects of travelling through BC. I enjoyed riding on Vancouver Island, the Cariboo and Kootenays. We have a beautiful area to ride the motorcycle in and what better way to enjoy the landscape of our country.”

Advice for riders:

For new riders: 

“Take a motorcycle course to learn how to ride. It’s important to have a good foundation to ride safely and proficiently.”

For experienced riders: 

“Always practice slow maneuvers and always look ahead to where you are riding. Don’t ride aggressively and always be vigilant on the road.

As warmer weather leads to more motorcycles on the road, Coquitlam RCMP reminds riders to stay visible, remain vigilant, and make safety your top priority on every ride.

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