California continues to experience high numbers of motorcycle-involved collision deaths and injuries within the California Highway Patrol’s jurisdiction.
In 2013, motorcycle-involved fatal and injury collisions increased approximately 4.5 percent and 6.1 percent, respectively, during the previous 12 months.
The CHP has been awarded a grant, Have A Good Ride II (HAGR II), to promote motorcycle safety and awareness.
From Oct. 1, 2015, through Sept. 30, 2016, the HAGR II grant goals are to reduce the number of motorcycle-involved fatal and injury traffic collisions statewide.
“A motorcyclist has the same rights, privileges, and responsibilities as any other motorist on the roadway,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “The educational efforts supported by this grant will improve safety for motorists as well as motorcyclists.”
The CHP will deploy officers on enhanced motorcycle safety enforcement operations in regions with a high number of motorcycle incidents.
Periods of traditionally heavy motorcycle activity such as May, which is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month; Memorial Day; Fourth of July; and designated motorcycle events in 2016 will also be targeted.
A year-long series of motorcycle traffic safety education events will be held. The campaigns will include HAGR II public service announcements for radio stations, the Internet and movie theaters.
The PSAs will promote the use of approved helmets for all riders and raise motorists’ awareness of sharing the road with motorcyclists. The messages also will remind riders to refrain from speeding, improper turning, and driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Throughout the HAGR II campaign, the CHP will emphasize the “Share the Road” message.
To help get that message across to the motoring public and to reach the goals set for the grant, the CHP, in conjunction with the California Department of Transportation, will display “Share the road – Look twice for motorcyclists” on changeable message signs on highways across California.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
CHP to use new grant to spotlight motorcycle safety
- Lake County News reports
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