The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will be conducting a specialized Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on May 21 2015, in the City of Santa Clarita in an effort to lower deaths and injuries.

Motorcycle fatalities saw a phenomenal drop of 37 percent from 2008 to 2010, but then rose 23 percent by 2012.

Operations like this are aimed at curbing any more rises in motorcycle deaths and sending the numbers back downward. Over the course of the past 3 years, motorcycle involved collisions have resulted in 850 fatal and injury crashes.

Careless motorists as well as riders get special scrutiny as extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle crashes occur.  Officers will be looking for violations made by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes.

They will be cracking down on both those operating regular vehicles and motorcycles who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, making illegal turns, or any other dangerous violation.

California collision data reveals that primary causes of motorcycle-involved crashes include speeding, unsafe turning and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs by both riders and drivers alike.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department offers a few safety tips for both riders and drivers.

Riders should see and be seen. Ride with the lights on during daylight hours, use the lane position to increase visibility and change lanes only when there is ample room. Speed should be matched with the surrounding traffic and always wear a DOT compliant helmet and brightly colored and protective clothing.

Drivers should share the road with riders. Look twice for motorcyclists, especially when entering the roadway, turning, or changing lanes. Motorcyclists are allowed in HOV lanes unless prohibited by signage.

Riders are urged to get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877-RIDE-411 (1-877-743-3411).