Napa PD Conducting Motorcycle Safety Enforcement

NAPA, CA — Napa police announced extra officers will be out on patrol Saturday, June 1 specifically looking for violations made by drivers and motorcyclists that increase the risk of crashes. The motorcycle safety enforcement operation aims at educating both motorcyclists and drivers on the rules of the road, according to Traffic Sgt. Kristofer Jenny of the Napa Police Department.

Motorcycle fatalities have jumped dramatically in California over the past decade, Sgt. Jenny said in a news release about Saturday's enforcement. In 2017, there were 576 people killed in motorcycle crashes statewide, up nearly 17 percent from 494 in 2015.

"Drivers should be alert for motorcyclists, as many motorcycle crashes are caused when drivers do not see them," Jenny said. "Check your mirrors and blind spots, especially when merging, turning or changing lanes."

Additionally, riders should make themselves visible by wearing brightly colored, protective clothing and keeping lights on during the day, he said. Riders should also change lanes only when there is enough room and always wear a Department of Transportation compliant helmet, he said.

"Although lane-splitting is now legal, motorcyclists should be extra careful traveling between lanes, avoiding the practice next to large vehicles like big rigs, buses and motorhomes, and factoring in lane width, traffic flow and roadway conditions," Jenny said.

All motorcycle riders, regardless of skill level, are encouraged to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at Californiamotorcyclist.com or by calling 877 RIDE-411 (877-743-3411).

Funding for Napa motorcycle safety enforcement operations are provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.