The Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station is preparing a Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation scheduled for Thursday, May 28, running from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m., according to information published by The Santa Clarita Valley Signal and SantaClarita.com.
The station issued an advance notice to the community, emphasizing that the goal is awareness and safety, not checkpoint-style enforcement. Sgt. Mark Perkins of the Traffic Unit told The Signal that the early announcement is intended to “make people more aware” and promote safer behavior among both drivers and motorcyclists.
The operation is funded through a California Office of Traffic Safety grant, distributed via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as noted in the station’s alert.
Deputies will focus on the primary factors that contribute to motorcycle collisions in California, including unsafe speed, improper turning, right-of-way violations, DUI, and unsafe lane changes. Speeding remains the most common cause, accounting for nearly one-third of motorcycle crashes statewide.
The Sheriff’s Station also reminded the public of several safety practices. Drivers are urged to check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles, use turn signals, and maintain safe following distances. Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear DOT-compliant helmets, use reflective gear, keep lights on during the day, and signal early when changing lanes.
Officials added that while lane-splitting is legal in California, it should not be done at high speeds in free-flowing traffic.
Sources
- The Santa Clarita Valley Signal
- SantaClarita.com