July 23, 2026 - 116 views
North Wales Police are urging all road users to take extra care this summer after a series of fatal collisions involving motorcyclists across the region.
As schools break up for the summer holidays and traffic levels increase, officers have renewed their road safety message through Operation Apex, the force's campaign aimed at reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured on North Wales roads.
So far in 2026, there have been 13 fatal road traffic collisions across North Wales, with seven of those incidents involving motorcycles. Police have also recorded a 29.3 per cent increase in serious collisions involving motorcyclists, rising from 41 incidents during the same period last year to 53 this year.
All of the fatal collisions remain under investigation by North Wales Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit and Roads Crime Unit.
Sergeant Leigh McCann, Operation Apex lead for North Wales Police, said every fatal collision leaves a lasting impact on families, friends, emergency responders and local communities.
"While these investigations continue, we are asking all road users not to lose sight of the human cost behind these figures," he said.
"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."
The warning comes as North Wales prepares for one of its busiest periods of the year, with thousands of visitors expected to travel across popular routes in Eryri, the Conwy Valley, Anglesey and along the North Wales coast.
Operation Apex combines education, engagement and targeted enforcement, with officers continuing to patrol key routes throughout the summer and taking action against dangerous driving and riding.
Police are encouraging motorcyclists to ensure their bikes are roadworthy, ride within speed limits, wear appropriate protective clothing and take regular breaks on longer journeys.
Drivers are also being reminded to look carefully for motorcycles, particularly at junctions and roundabouts, leave plenty of space when overtaking and avoid distractions behind the wheel.
Sergeant McCann added: "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."
North Wales Police say the aim of Operation Apex is simple – to prevent more families from experiencing the heartbreak of losing a loved one on the region's roads.
