Motorcycle Safety Operation This Friday in Newport Beach

NEWPORT BEACH, CA — You better watch out...for motorcycle riders in Newport Beach. On Friday, Dec. 9, the Newport Beach Police Department will conduct a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation.

"Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas that are frequented by motorcyclists," Public Information Officer Jennifer Manzella said. The reasoning behind the operation: to reduce injuries, educate and enforce drivers and motorcycle riders, alike.

"Officers will be focused on specific offenses, including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, driving on suspended or revoked licenses and other dangerous activities," she said.

In California, motorcycle fatalities have risen dramatically from the decade low in 2010 of 352 deaths. In 2013, 453 motorcyclists lost their lives, and the motorcycle death toll has only risen from there.

According to California data, the primary causes of motorcycle-involved collisions are:

• speeding
• unsafe turning
• driver/rider impairment due to drugs or alcohol

Over the past two years in the city of Newport Beach, one person has died and 91 others were injured in traffic collisions involving motorcycles, Manzella said. "The police department encourages everyone on the road to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, whether you are on two wheels or four."

Safety tips for motorcycle riders:

• Change lanes when there is ample room
• Match your speed to surrounding traffic
• Wear DOT-compliant helmets and bright, protective clothing
• Ride with lights on, always
• See and be Seen

Safety tips for drivers:

• Look twice for motorcyclists
• Motorcyclists are allowed in HOV lanes
• Share the road