The Long Beach Police Department will conduct a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on Friday in an effort to reduce deaths and injuries, officials stated today.

As part of the operation, extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle crashes happen, according to an LBPD release.

“Officers will be looking for violations made by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes,” the release stated. “They will be cracking down on both those operating regular vehicles and motorcycles who are violating traffic safety laws.”

In Long Beach, there have been 494 fatal and injury crashes involving motorcycles over the past five years.


 

In California, motorcycle fatalities have jumped dramatically by more than 28 percent from a decade low of 352 in 2010, officials stated. In 2013, 453 motorcyclists were killed, which is at 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,” the release stated.

Police have provided the following safety tips for motorcyclists:

  • 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

Police have provided the following safety tips for drivers:

  • Look twice for motorcyclists, especially when entering the roadway, turning or changing lanes
  • Motorcyclist are allowed in HOV lanes unless prohibited by signage

The operation is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Riders are urged to get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at http://www.californiamotorcyclist.com/ or 1.877 RIDE 411 (1.877.743.3411).

Stephanie Rivera is the community engagement editor. Reach her at [email protected] or on Twitter at @StephRivera88.