CHP on Motorcycle Rider Safety
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has recently issued a press release about Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and the shared responsibility for motorcycle rider safety. Throughout the month of May, the CHP, along with other public safety agencies, will be trying to raise awareness about safety issues facing motorcyclists on California and U.S. roadways. This year, the CHP’s message is that motorcycle safety is just as important to vehicle drivers as it is to motorcyclists. Joe Farrow, CHP Commissioner, wants motorists to know that motorcycle rider safety is truly a shared responsibility. Drivers and riders are both responsible for safe driving and riding practices to improve overall safety for motorcycle riders and other roadway users.
Motorcycles in California by the Numbers
- There are 862,705 registered motorcycles in California
- There are more than 1.4 million licensed motorcycle riders in the state.
- In 2014, 527 people were killed in motorcycle-involved crashes in California.
- Motorcycle collisions in California have increased four percent between 2013 and 2014.
- The number of people killed in motorcycle-involved crashes has increased 11 percent between 2013 and 2014.
Motorcycle Riders and Collisions
The CHP is quick to point out that motorcycle riders are much more vulnerable in collisions than other drivers and motorists. They don’t have seat belts, steel cages or air bags to protect them in the event of a crash. Even with helmets, riders can become severely, catastrophically or fatally injured in crashes. Crashes at relatively minor speeds can even be deadly for riders. Motorcyclists can improve their overall safety through the use of protective gear and equipment like helmets, boots, jackets and gloves, but other motorists still need to be on the lookout.
After a Motorcycle Accident in San Diego
The CHP has a variety of community activities planned throughout the state this month. Riders are also encouraged to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP), which offers courses for both the novice and experienced rider.
SOURCE: Harris Personal Injury Lawyers – Read entire story here.
