CCPD increases motorcycle violation enforcement Friday night
In effort to lower deaths and injuries, the Cathedral City Police Department will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on Friday.
Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas where motorcyclists commonly ride and where motorcycle crashes occur. Authorities said they will be looking for violations made by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes.
The crackdown will be made on those operating regular vehicles and motorcycles who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, making illegal turns, or any other dangerous violations, officers said.
According to the release, motorcycle fatalities saw a phenomenal drop of 37 percent from 2008 to 2010, but then rose 23 percent by 2012.
Authorities said operations like the Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation are aimed at curbing the rise in motorcycle deaths. In the past three years, motorcycle-involved collisions have resulted in several injuries.
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.
CCPD offers safety tips for riders:
Ride with lights on during daylight hours
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
Safety tips for drivers – Share the Road:
Look twice for motorcyclists, especially when entering the roadway, turning or changing lanes
Motorcyclist are allowed in HOV lanes unless prohibited by signage
Riders can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. You can also call 1-877-743-3411 to learn more about the program.
CCPD officers said the program is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
