Police are urging all road users to take extra care this summer following a number of fatal road traffic collisions involving motorcycles across North Wales.
As the summer holiday period gets underway and more people take to the roads, officers are renewing their road safety message through Operation Apex, the force’s campaign to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads.
Tragically, so far in 2026, there have been 13 fatal collisions, seven of those involving motorcycles, on the roads of North Wales.
Every one of these incidents remains under investigation by our Serious Collision Investigation Unit and Roads Crime Unit, and our thoughts are with the families, friends and communities affected by these devastating events. Due to the ongoing investigations. It would be inappropriate to comment on the individual circumstances; however, the devastating consequences serve as a stark reminder that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.
The increase in road users during the summer months, particularly motorcyclists enjoying the warmer weather, makes this a crucial time for everyone to take extra care.
As part of Operation Apex, officers from the Roads Crime Unit will continue to work proactively to improve road safety through education, engagement and enforcement.
Sergeant Leigh McCann, Operation lead for Op Apex on behalf of North Wales Police said: “Every fatal collision is a tragedy that leaves a lasting impact on families, friends, emergency responders and the wider communities. Our thoughts remain with everyone who has lost a loved one or been affected by these devastating incidents.
“While these investigations continue, we are asking all road users not to lose sight of the human cost behind these figures. Thirteen people have lost their lives in collisions this year and that is thirteen too many.
“The summer months see more people travelling and more motorcycles enjoying the roads. We know that riders are among the most vulnerable people using our roads because, unlike those in enclosed vehicles, they have very little protection if a collision occurs. That’s why we are asking everyone – not just motorcyclists – to take extra care, stay focused and make safe decisions every time they travel.
“Whether you are riding a motorcycle, driving a vehicle, cycling or walking, please take the time to look properly, stay focused, obey speed limits, avoid distractions and never take unnecessary risks. A moment’s lapse in concentration can have life-changing consequences.”
Operation Apex combines education, engagement and targeted enforcement to encourage safer behaviour on the roads and reduce the risk of serious and fatal collisions.
Throughout the summer, officers will continue to patrol key routes, engage with motorists and motorcyclists, and take action where dangerous or irresponsible road use puts lives at risk.
Motorcyclists are encouraged to:
- Ensure their motorcycle is roadworthy before every journey
- Ride within the speed limit and according to the road and weather conditions and also their own experience
- Take regular breaks on longer rides to avoid fatigue
- Wear appropriate protective clothing and a correctly fitted helmet
Drivers are reminded to:
- Take a second look for motorcycles, particularly at junctions and roundabouts
- Leave plenty of space when following or overtaking
- Avoid distractions and remain fully focused on the road
- Expect to see more vulnerable road users during the warmer months
Operation Apex will see officers continuing to patrol key routes throughout the summer, engaging with road users and acting where offences place lives at risk.
The aim is simple: to prevent further families from experiencing the heartbreak of losing a loved one on our roads.
Notes:
- So far this year North Wales Police have seen a 29.3% increase in serious road traffic collisions involving motorcyclists (41 to 53).
