The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) is set to conduct a motorcycle safety operation in Santa Clarita on Monday.

LASD is set to have extra deputies out on patrol May 20, 2019, between 5 a.m. and 3 p.m., in the City of Santa Clarita, looking for violations made by drivers and motorcyclists that increase the risk of crashes.

The motorcycle safety enforcement operation aims at educating both motorcyclists and drivers on the rules of the road, according to officials.

“Motorcycle fatalities have jumped dramatically in California over the past decade,” reads a statement released Friday. “In 2017, there were 576 people killed in motorcycle crashes statewide, up nearly 17 percent from 494 in 2015. Over the course of the past 3 years, motorcycle involved collisions have resulted in 47 fatal and 895 injury crashes in the cities policed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. “

Officials advise drivers to be alert for motorcyclists, as many motorcycle crashes are caused when drivers do not see them. Drivers should remember to check their mirrors and blind spots, especially when merging, turning or changing lanes, according to officials.

“Although lane splitting is now legal, motorcyclists should be extra careful traveling between lanes, avoiding the practice next to large vehicles like big rigs, buses and motorhomes, and factoring in lane width, traffic flow, and roadway conditions,” the statement reads.

Riders should also change lanes only when there is enough room and always wear a Department of Transportation compliant helmet, according to officials.

Riders can also make themselves visible by wearing brightly colored, protective clothing and keeping lights on during the day.

All motorcycle riders, regardless of skill level, are encouraged to enroll in the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available by calling 1-877 RIDE-411 (1-877-743-3411) or by clicking here.

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