North Wales Police is urging all road users to take extra care this summer following a number of fatal road traffic collisions involving motorcycles across the region.
As the summer holidays begin and roads become busier, the force is renewing its road safety message through Operation Apex, its campaign to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on North Wales roads.
So far in 2026, there have been 13 fatal collisions across North Wales, with seven involving motorcycles.
All of the incidents remain under investigation by North Wales Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit and Roads Crime Unit.
The force said it would be inappropriate to comment on the individual circumstances of the collisions while investigations continue, but said the tragedies serve as a stark reminder that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Police have also revealed that serious road traffic collisions involving motorcyclists have increased by 29.3% this year, rising from 41 to 53 incidents compared with the same period last year.
With warmer weather bringing more motorcyclists onto the roads, officers say the summer months are a particularly important time for everyone to remain vigilant.
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, Roads Crime Unit officers will patrol key routes, engage with motorists and motorcyclists, and take enforcement action where dangerous or irresponsible driving and riding 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
North Wales Police said 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.
