Deputies to Watch for Motorcycle Violations on Sunday

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on May 25 in an effort to lower motorcycle deaths and injuries. 

Extra deputies will be on duty patrolling areas where motorcycle accidents frequently occur and looking for violations made by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes.  They will also be cracking down on those operating both regular vehicles and motorcycles that are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, making illegal turns and any other dangerous violation.

Motorcycle fatalities saw a phenomenal drop of 37 percent from 2008 to 2010, but then rose 23 percent by 2012. From 2012 to 2013 there were 131 injuries and 5 fatalities from collisions involving motorcycles in the Orange County Sheriff’s Department contracted areas. California collision data reveals the primary causes of these crashes include speeding, unsafe turning and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs. 

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.  Drivers should be aware that motorcycle lane splitting is not illegal if done in a safe and prudent manner.  Motorcycle riders should consult the Lane Splitting General Guidelines at www.ots.ca.gov/lanesplittinggeneralguidelines.pdf. Remember, share in the responsibility and do your part to safely “share the road.” 

Riders can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 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.