Atascadero Police shares motorcycle safety tips for drivers
Officials encourage motorists to check mirrors and blind spots
– The Atascadero Police Department is reminding drivers to look twice for motorcycles during National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
With warmer weather bringing more motorcycles onto the roads, the department said drivers and riders should remain 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,” Commander Matt Chesson 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, 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2023, representing 15% of total highway fatalities that year. In California, 583 motorcyclists were killed in 2023.
The Atascadero Police Department shared the following safety tips for drivers and motorcyclists.
Drivers should always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes, avoid following motorcycles too closely, and maintain a safe distance. Drivers should also use caution when a motorcycle’s turn signal is activated and make sure the rider is turning before moving ahead.
Motorcyclists should always wear a U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmet with eye protection. Riders should also wear leather or other sturdy clothing, including jackets, pants, boots with nonskid soles, and gloves. The department recommended adding reflective strips or decals to clothing and motorcycles to improve visibility.
The department also encouraged riders to ride defensively, avoid lingering in blind spots, and keep motorcycle lights on during the day.
Officials said both drivers and riders should never drive or ride distracted or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
