Pasadena Police to conduct MC Safety

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http://pasadenanow.com/main/pasadena-police-conducts-motorcycle-safety-eforcement Pasadena Police Conducts Motorcycle Safety Enforcement The purpose of this program is to lower vehicle related deaths and injuries particularly where motorcyclists ride and collisions occur From STAFF REPORTS Published: Monday, July 19, 2010 | 4:09 PM
Pasadena Police will conduct a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on Friday, July 23, 2010. The purpose of this program is to lower vehicle related deaths and injuries particularly where motorcyclists ride and collisions occur. Officers will enforce traffic violations made by motorcyclists as well as drivers who commit violations that can lead to motorcycle collisions, injuries and fatalities. “More and more people are relying on motorcycles, mopeds and bicycles as a mode of primary transportation in or City,” says Chief of Police Phillip Sanchez. “We want to take advantage of this program to educate riders and drivers, but most importantly to save lives.” The Pasadena Police Department also reminds all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes.
California collision data reveals that primary causes of motorcycle-involved crashes include speed, unsafe turns and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs. “Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than others sharing the road,” said California Office of Traffic Safety Director, Christopher J. Murphy. “Motorcyclists, per vehicle mile traveled, are 37 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash.”
Motorcycle fatalities had been on the rise in California, increasing 175 percent in the last decade, from 204 killed in 1998 to 560 killed in 2008. Preliminary numbers for 2009 show that the trend may be changing. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that California may see a 20% reduction in motorcyclists killed. In 2009 and through June 17, 2010, Pasadena has not experienced any motorcycle related fatalities.
Rider’s can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 1-877-743-3411.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.