LASD cracks down on motorcycle safety
Traffic operation looking for violations by drivers and riders alike in areas that have seen the most crashes
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is conducting a specialized motorcycle safety enforcement operation in the city of Santa Clarita in an effort to reduce the numbers of deaths and injuries.
Extra deputies were on duty starting Friday, patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle crashes often occur.
They’re looking for violations by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes, according to a news release issued by the LASD.
Deputies will also be cracking down on both those operating regular vehicles and motorcycles who are violating traffic safety laws.
The special enforcement operation was sparked by some alarming motorcycle crash statistics:
Motorcycle fatalities jumped dramatically in California by over 28 percent from a decade low of 352 in 2010, the LASD statement said.
In 2013, 453 motorcyclists lost their lives, a five-year high. California collision data reveals that primary causes of motorcycle-involved crashes include speeding, unsafe turning and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs by both riders and drivers alike.
Operations like the one launched Friday are aimed at curbing any more rises in motorcycle deaths and sending the numbers back downward. Over the course of the past three years, motorcycle-involved collisions have resulted in 1,332 fatal and injury crashes throughout the county, according to the news release.
Safety tips for riders — “See and Be Seen”:
Use your lane position to increase visibility; change lanes only when there is ample room
Match your speed to surrounding traffic
Always wear a DOT compliant helmet and brightly colored, protective clothing
Ride with lights on during daylight hours
Safety tips for drivers — “Share the Road”:
Look twice for motorcyclists, especially when entering the roadway, turning or changing lanes
Motorcyclists are allowed in HOV lanes unless prohibited by signage
Riders are urged to get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at http://californiamotorcyclist.com/ or 1-877 RIDE 411 (1-877-743-3411).
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.The message to all drivers and motorcyclists is: share in the responsibility and do your part by safely “sharing the road.”