SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The warming
weather and increasing number of vehicles traveling on California’s roadways offer
a timely reminder of the importance of motorcycle safety awareness for
motorcyclists and motorists alike. By
recognizing May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the California Highway
Patrol (CHP) emphasizes safe riding and driving practices for everyone.
“Motorcyclists who are
responsible, informed, and properly equipped can help reduce rider deaths and
injuries,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said.
“Motorists are also key to reducing crashes by being aware of the
dangers and challenges of motorcycle riding. Taking the time to look twice for
motorcyclists can save a life.”
“Motorcycle riders are
more vulnerable out in the elements, which is why it is important for drivers
to always be mindful of riders,” California Office of Traffic Safety Director
Barbara Rooney said.
With more than 1.4 million
licensed riders, motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation for
Californians, another reason motorcycle safety awareness is paramount. Preliminary data from the CHP’s Statewide
Integrated Traffic Records System show more than 500 people were killed in
motorcycle-involved crashes in California in 2020 and more than 11,500 people
were injured.
As part of its continual
motorcycle safety program, the CHP strongly encourages all riders, new and
experienced, to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program
(CMSP). The CMSP has
98 training sites
throughout the state and trains approximately 55,000 motorcyclists each year. For more information or to find a training
site near you, visit californiamotorcyclist.com or motorcyclesafetyca.com.
Motorcyclists can help
protect themselves by always wearing the proper safety gear, including a U.S.
Department of Transportation-compliant helmet, observing the speed limit,
riding defensively, and always riding sober. Drivers should always look at their mirrors
and blind spots before changing lanes and always keep a safe distance.
The CHP promotes
motorcycle safety with the Get Educated
and Ride Safe (GEARS) program, funded by a $750,000 grant from the
California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration. All eight CHP field Divisions
will hold outreach events to promote motorcycle safety throughout 2021 under
the GEARS grant.
The mission of the CHP is
to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
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