By Lookout Staff

July 11, 2024 -- The Santa Monica Police Department will have extra officers on patrol Friday to focus on traffic violations made by drivers and motorcycle riders.

During the safety enforcement operation officers will be on the lookout for "top primary crash factors for motorcycles," police officials said.

They include "unsafe speed, improper turning, right-of-way violations, driving under the influence and unsafe lane changes," officials said.

"Speeding is the most common factor, accounting for nearly a third of all crashes in the state."

Injuries and fatalities involving motorcycles have been steadily rising as motorcycles become an increasingly popular form of transportation.

Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled and five times more likely to be injured, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports.

Drivers should always check twice for motorcycles in their mirrors and blind spots and never follow a motorcycle too closely, officials said.
When at an intersection, they should allow enough space before turning.

Motorcyclists are not encouraged to split lanes, a practice that is legal, while traveling at high speeds in free-flowing traffic, police officials said.

"Don’t assume drivers see you," police officials advise. "Signal well in advance before changing lanes and watch for turning vehicles."

Motorcyclists should always wear a DOT compliant helmet and protective gear, consider adding reflective tape to make them easier to see and 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.