Helmet-cam captures bear running into motorbike’s path
A shocking video of a young black bear running across a highway and into the path of an oncoming motorcycle has RCMP reminding drivers of the importance of obeying speed limits.
RCMP Traffic Services in B.C. released the video, taken from the motorcyclist’s helmet-mounted camera, to educate the public about driving defensively so they are prepared to react to any event.
In the video taken June 30, the unidentified motorcyclist is travelling on Highway 7 and appears to suddenly speed up from zero to more than 140 km/h in under 20 seconds. The road appears to be empty with no other vehicles.
At the same time, a train can be seen parallel to the highway in the motorcyclist’s peripheral vision.
Soon after, a young black bear quickly enters the camera view, seemingly scared by the train as it darts across the highway directly in front of the motorcycle.
The motorcyclist attempts to avoid the collision, but is unable to stop in time. The video goes blurry as the driver is violently ejected from the bike.
“The video clearly shows nobody else on the road, and a nice clear, dry day,” Cpl. Robert McDonald said in a statement. “Who would expect a bear to run across the road?”
According to RCMP, the bear walked away from the crash, but the motorcyclist, who sustained serious, non-life-threatening injuries, needed medical attention.
Police said the video shows the crash was caused by distracted driving and excessive speed.
RCMP hope the video will help drivers realize the importance of slowing down and concentrating on the complicated task of driving a vehicle.