DATE: May 2, 2024
SUBJECT: Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
CONTACT: Mike Gens, Sergeant
(805)385-7847 (Tue-Fri 7am-5pm) │michael.gens@oxnardpd.org
Rev Up Safety: May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Oxnard, Calif. – During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May, the Oxnard Police Department would like to remind drivers to always look twice for motorcycles. By practicing safe driving habits and taking shared responsibility on our roads, we can help everyone arrive at their destination safely.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, there were 6,218 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2022. Motorcyclists were about 22 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and four times more likely to be injured.
Throughout the month, the Oxnard Police Department will increase efforts to address dangerous and unsafe driving, focusing on driving behaviors that put motorcyclists at risk, such as speeding, unsafe or illegal lane changes, and stop sign/red light violations. Additionally, on May 23, 2024, between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., officers will conduct enhanced enforcement specifically addressing those dangerous and unsafe driving behaviors.
To help protect you and your family, keep the following tips in mind while driving or riding:
Drivers:
· Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
· Do not follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
· If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful. Be sure that the rider is turning before moving ahead.
Motorcyclists:
· Always wear a U.S. DOT-compliant helmet with eye protection.
· Wear leather or other sturdy clothing such as a jacket, pants, boots with nonskid soles and gloves. Add reflective strips or decals to your clothing and motorcycle to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
· Ride defensively. Don’t assume a driver can see you. Avoid riding in a driver’s blind spot.
· Always keep you lights on, even during the day.
Lastly, both drivers and riders should never drive/ride distracted or 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 Safety Administration.