The LAPD Aims to Improve Safety of Motorcyclists Careless Motorists as Well as Riders Get Special Scrutiny NR14398SF

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on Saturday, October 25, 2014, in an effort to lower traffic-related fatalities and injuries.  Extra officers will be patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle collisions occur.  Officers will be looking for violations committed by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes, such as those who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, making illegal turns, or committing other dangerous violations.

During the time period of 2008 to 2010, motorcycle fatalities saw a phenomenal drop of 37 percent.  However, in 2012 the number of motorcycle fatalities increased dramatically by 23 percent.  Operations like these are focused on reducing the number of motorcycle fatalities.

The LAPD reminds everyone to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.  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. The message to all drivers and motorcyclists is: share in the responsibility and do your part by safely “sharing the road.”  For further information, please contact Officer Don Inman, Traffic Coordination Section, at (213) 486-0703.