By Attorney Steve Kantor
On October 13, 2023, Port Dover, Ontario will host its Friday the 13th celebration. This is an annual tradition held on every Friday the 13th since 1981. Back in 1981 a group of 25 friends, through word of mouth got together at the Commercial Hotel (now known as Angelo’s of Dover) on November 13, 1981. The group had such a great time that they decided to make it an annual event every Friday the 13th. With a Friday the 13th coming this October, it is a good idea to keep the following in mind. At the border you will need to provide a valid passport or enhanced New York State license that is good for at least six months after you arrive in Canada. If you plan to travel between the United States and Canada frequently, you may wish to sign up for the Nexus Program.
You will need a valid U.S. Driver’s License in order to operate your motorcycle in Canada. Insurance is also a legal requirement for all vehicles driven in Canada. If you plan to drive your own motorcycle in Canada it may not be a bad idea to check with your insurance carrier about coverage when riding internationally.
Beware that Canada requires all motorcycle riders to wear helmets that conform to DOT certifications
The Fourth Amendment does not apply to international borders. Therefore, the border patrol has the right to search you and your bike without a warrant. So, it is not a good idea to bring anything questionable across the border. If you have any drunk driving convictions don’t expect to be allowed across the Canadian Border. They will most likely check your record when you arrive at the border and if you have a drunk driving conviction you will not be allowed into Canada.
Lastly, keep in mind that Canada operates on the metric system. When the speed limit sign says 100, that is measured in kilometers per hour which is 62 miles per hour not 100. Similarly, 0.62 of a mile equals 1 kilometer. So, when you see something that is 2 kilometers ahead it is barely over a mile until you get there. Keep this in mind and if you are using a GPS device you may want to switch to metric upon hitting the border.
If you cannot attend this October 13th festivities, 2024 has two months with Friday the 13th: September and December. As always, please use common sense and remember that drivers in cages are not always paying attention so drive defensively. If you or your family are involved in any motorcycle incidents, please feel free to contact the Kantor Gullo Law Firm so that we can provide you with a free consultation. Be safe and have fun in Canada for PD13!
