YUBA CITY, Calif. – The Yuba City Police Department is reminding drivers to look twice for motorcycles as warmer weather brings more riders to the roads.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and officials are emphasizing the importance of staying alert to help reduce crashes and save lives.
“Motorcyclists are out in greater numbers as the weather warms, and we’re reminding everyone to share the road,” Sgt. David Krause said. “Most crashes involving motorcycles happen when drivers simply don’t see them. Taking a few extra seconds to look twice can prevent a tragedy.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 6,335 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in the U.S. in 2023, representing 15 percent of total highway fatalities for that year. In California, 583 motorcyclists were killed in 2023.
Throughout the month, Yuba City PD will be conducting several Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operations. The department is offering safety tips for both drivers and motorcyclists to help protect everyone on the road.
Drivers should always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes. They should not follow a motorcycle too closely and should always keep a safe distance. If a driver sees a motorcycle with a signal on, they should be careful and make sure the rider is turning before moving ahead.
Both drivers and riders should never drive or ride distracted or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Motorcyclists should always wear a U.S. DOT-compliant helmet with eye protection. They should wear leather or other sturdy clothing such as a jacket, pants, boots with nonskid soles and gloves.
Riders should add reflective strips or decals to their clothing and motorcycle to make it easier for other drivers to see them.
Motorcyclists should ride defensively and not assume a driver can see them, avoiding riding in a driver’s blind spot. Motorcyclists should always keep their lights on, even during the day.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
