Full Notification

Nature of Incident:       May Traffic Safety Awareness – Motorcycle Safety
Location:                        City of Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, and Moorpark
Date & Time:                  Month of May, 2018
Unit Responsible:        Thousand Oaks Police and Camarillo Police-Traffic Units
 
Narrative:  
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Ventura County, CA— In order to reduce motorcycle crashes and save lives, The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) are teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) this May for the annual Motorcycle Safety Awareness campaign to help save lives on our roadways. The awareness campaign aims to educate vehicle drivers and motorcyclists on how each motorist can be more aware of the other, creating safer roads and saving lives in the process.
The Camarillo, Moorpark, and Thousand Oaks Police Departments will join law enforcement throughout the state to step up enforcement along with awareness efforts to lower motorcycle deaths and injuries during the May campaign.  Officers will have a special emphasis this month on enforcing all traffic violations by both drivers and motorcyclists. 
According to NHTSA, motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2015, while motorcycles make up just 3 percent of all registered vehicles in the United States. In 2016, 5,286 motorcyclists were killed in motor vehicle crashes – a 6 percent increase from the 4,976 killed in 2015. More than 88,000 motorcyclists were injured in motor vehicle crashes.
Recent data from the California Department of Motor Vehicles shows there are more than 900,000 registered motorcycles in the state and more than 1.4 million licensed riders.  In 2016, 560 motorcyclists were killed in motor vehicle crashes in California– an 11 percent increase from the 494 killed in 2015. More than 14,400 motorcyclists were injured in motor vehicle crashes.
One of the main reasons motorcyclists are killed in crashes is because the motorcycle itself provides virtually no protection in a crash.  Unlike a car, a motorcycle is difficult to see.  Other motorists may be distracted by a cell phone or something else and may never see a motorcycle as they are pulling onto a roadway.  A recent study shows roughly 80% of motorcycle collisions result in injury or death compared to that of an automobile which is around 20%.  You are more protected in a car with air bags than you are riding a motorcycle.  However, let’s not forget a motorcycle has better maneuverability, ability to stop quickly, and swerve quickly when necessary.  
If you choose to ride a motorcycle, here are some safety tips we recommend:

1. A motorcyclist should attend a motorcycle rider-training course to learn how to safely operate a motorcycle.  A motorcyclist has to be more careful and aware at intersections, where most motorcycle collisions occur.
2. Never ride a motorcycle without wearing a helmet.  Choose a helmet that has a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) label on it. This is the most important piece of equipment. Safety helmets save lives by reducing the extent of head injuries in the event of a crash. Many good helmets are available. Make sure it fits comfortably and snugly, and is fastened for the ride
3. Wear the right shoes, gloves and clothing. Thick protective clothing not only provides comfort against the elements, but also may be all there is between you and the pavement in a crash.
4. Drive defensively. Be especially alert at intersections because as discussed earlier, this is where a majority of motorcycle collisions occur.  Check the rearview mirrors before changing lanes or stopping. A quick stop without checking rear traffic may result in a rear-end crash. When changing lanes, use signals and make a visual check to assure that you can change lanes safely.
5. Maintain a safe speed consistent with driving conditions and your capabilities. Gravel on the road and slippery road surfaces can be hazardous. Avoid sudden braking or turning.  Remember speed kills.
6. Use brakes wisely. Use both brakes together. Brake firmly and progressively and bring the motorcycle upright before stopping. Remember that driving through water can adversely affect the brakes. 
   The Thousand Oaks Police and Camarillo Police Traffic Units want motorcycle riders to enjoy their ride but please do so responsibly.  Experienced motorcyclists often have this advice for new riders: "Assume that you are invisible to other motorists and operate your motorcycle accordingly." Position yourself to be seen. Ride in the portion of the lane where it is most likely that you will be seen by other motorists. Avoid the car's "No Zone" (i.e., blind spot). Use your headlights, day and night. All motor vehicles have blind spots where other vehicles cannot be seen with mirrors.

For more information on motorcycle safety please visit:
 
https://one.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/motosafety.html
 
https://msf-usa.org/
 
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2013/04/10-motorcycle-safety-tips-for-new-riders/index.htm
 
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/?1dmy&urile=wcm:path:/dmv_content_en/dmv/about/2011mc_safety
 
 
Prepared by:                                   Sergeant Dennis Sliva
Media Release Date:                     May 2, 2018
Media Follow-Up Contact:           Sergeant Dennis Sliva
[email protected]
(805) 494-8262
Sergeant Paul Richards
(805) 388-5132
(805) 797-6398
Approved by:                      Captain Don Aguilar