Extra patrols will be deployed in Riverside Saturday as part of a crackdown on motorcyclists not following road rules — and the motorists who put them in jeopardy because of unsafe driving.
Riverside police Sgt. Ryan Wilson said the emphasis of the operation, which is slated from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., will be on education, though scofflaws can also expect citations.
According to Wilson, almost one million motorcycles are registered in California, placing many two-wheel operators on roads, freeways and highways “without the same protections as (automobile) drivers.”
“Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than vehicle occupants,” the sergeant said. “The Riverside Police Department recognizes the need to protect the public by looking for violations made by drivers and riders that puts the public at further risk.”
Wilson said all motorcyclists should be wearing helmets and keeping their headlights on at all times — not just after dark. He acknowledged that while lane-splitting, or white-lining, is legal, patrol officers will discourage it at high speeds, especially when going between large vehicles.
According to the sergeant, automobile drivers should get into the habit of routinely checking for motorcyclists in their mirrors and closely watching blind spots. He underscored the need for consistent use of signals and to leave adequate spacing between cars and motorcycles.
More information is available at www.californiamotorcyclist.com/.