child on motorcycle

May is Motorcycle Awareness Month

Posted:05/03/2022

ELK GROVE, CA – During May’s Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Elk Grove Police Department wants to remind drivers to always look twice for motorcycles. 

The top primary crash factors for motorcycles are unsafe speed, improper turning, right-of-way violations, driving under the influence and unsafe lane changes. Speeding is the most common, accounting for nearly a third of all crashes in the state.

The Elk Grove Police Department will be conducting enforcement operations during the month of May looking specifically for violations made by drivers and motorcycle riders.

To help protect you and your family, keep the following tips in mind while driving or riding:

Drivers

  • Always check twice for motorcycles in your mirrors and blind spots.
  • Use your signal when changing lanes.
  • Never follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
  • When at an intersection, allow enough space before turning.

Motorcyclists

  • Always wear a DOT compliant helmet and protective gear.
  • Consider adding reflective tape to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
  • Always keep your lights on, even during the day.
  • Don’t assume drivers see you: signal well in advance before changing lanes and watch for turning vehicles.

Lastly, both drivers and riders should never drive/ride distracted under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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