Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                   May 3, 2021
Contact Person: Sergeant Jeremy Burns
805-473-5100;    [email protected]
 
Check Twice for Motorcycles: May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
 
Arroyo Grande, Calif. — May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and Arroyo Grande Police Department reminds drivers to check twice for motorcycles.
 
“It’s important for drivers to understand motorcycle rider behaviors and learn how to drive safely around riders,” Chief of Police, Michael Martinez said. “Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable and have much less protections as those in vehicles do, which is why it is critical for drivers to be mindful of those on two wheels.”
 
Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than vehicle occupants. In 2019, there were 474 motorcycle deaths on California roads.
 
To help protect you and your family, keep the following tips in mind while driving or riding:
 
Drivers

• Always check twice for motorcycles, looking at all mirrors and blind spots.
• Motorcycle riders have the same rights to the road as other vehicles. Allow motorcycles to always use the full width of a lane.
• Never follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
• If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful. The rider may have forgotten to turn the signal off. Be sure that the rider is turning before proceeding.

• Always wear a DOT compliant helmet. Learn how to identify a safe helmet that fits on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.