As the economy improves, authorities expect there will likely be more miles driven by all motorists, including motorcyclists. This will include novice motorcycle riders who are untrained and unable to adequately handle the power of today’s motorcycles.
The Santa Monica Police Department is reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.
To enforce this message, the SMPD will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation next Saturday, Feb. 15 in an effort to lower deaths and injuries.
SMPD Sgt. Jay Moroso said extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle crashes occur.
“Officers will be looking for violations made by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes,” Moroso said. “Enforcement efforts will focus on both those who operate regular vehicles as well as motorcycles who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, making illegal turns, or any other dangerous violations.”
Moroso said drivers should be aware that motorcycle lane splitting is legal if done in a safe and prudent manner.
Motorcycle riders should consult the Lane Splitting General Guidelines to learn more at www.ots.ca.gov/lanesplittinggeneralguidelines.pdf.
