Traffic in and around the Cochrane area seemed to be slower moving than usual this past weekend. 

Over the past couple of weeks, the Cochrane RCMP has been kept busy responding to a number of collisions that have involved motor vehicles, motorcycles, semi-tractor trailers, as well as wildlife.

Cochrane RCMP, Constable Kary Moore shares there were a number of varying factors adding to the busyness on the roadways this past weekend. "Highway 1 saw slow traffic headed west due to a collision that occurred on July 27th at approximately 4 a.m. involving the rollover of a semi-tractor trailer which in turn significantly impacted traffic headed west. As well, this weekend there was the air show on, and quite often many people will stop along Highway 1 to watch the air show, which as a reminder is illegal. We did have extra resources out on HIghway 1 just to keep traffic moving as much as we could to stop people from stopping. As well we know weekend traffic is busy in and around Cochrane just due to pure volume."

Reminding motorists to exercise caution and patience behind the wheel will ensure everyone gets to their final destination safely. "Everybody has the same plans whether it is day trips or weekend trips out to the mountains or whatever. You just need to be patient and you will get there; even though you might be going slightly slower than you like, you need to take your time."

RCMP has also responded to a number of collisions as of late involving motorcyclists, including one on Sunday (July 28) involving a bike hitting a deer. "It is definitely motorcycle season; so I will remind both motorcyclists and vehicle drivers alike to be aware. Make sure you are paying attention, motorbikes are obviously smaller and can be more difficult to see, but everyone just needs to pay attention and share the road."

Motorcyclists also need to take precautions by making sure their lights are on and that they are wearing the appropriate gear before heading out, states Cst. Moore.

For the most part, motorcyclists and vehicle drivers do a good job of respecting each other and sharing the road, but at the end of the day, all drivers are accountable when behind the wheel. "Have some patience and you'll get to where you are going as fast as everyone else."