FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2026
Sgt. Mario Giomi
[email protected]
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Petaluma, California — The Petaluma Police Department is reminding drivers to always look twice for motorcycles. With the arrival of warmer weather, more motorcycles are taking to the roads, making it essential for everyone to stay 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, Officer Chris Ricci 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.
To help protect you and your family, keep the following tips in mind while driving or riding:
Drivers
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 your 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 Traffic Safety Administration.
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