By Rylie Friesen-–
May is both national bicycle safety and motorcycle safety awareness month, and the Citrus Heights Police Department is reminding drivers and cyclists to look out for eachother on the roadways.
“While we should be staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, we understand people need to get out once in a while and run essential errands,“ Sgt. Shaun Gualco said in a news release last week. “Don’t let safety on the road go by the wayside, whether you are on two wheels or four.”
According to police, motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than those in vehicles. There are nearly 900,000 registered motorcycles in the state.
Police suggest the following tips to help keep drivers and riders safe on the roadways:
Bicyclists:
- Always wear a helmet and never ride impaired.
- Follow social distancing measures and maintain at least six feet of physical space between other riders and those out walking.
- Be seen: wear brightly colored clothing and have bike lights handy (front white light and rear red flashing light or reflectors).
- Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
- Rules of the road still apply: Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow moving vehicle.
- Keep outside trips to a minimum; they should only be to get essential items or exercise.
Motorcyclists:
- Always wear a DOT compliant helmet and protective gear like gloves and leather clothing.
- Consider adding reflective tape to your clothing to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
- Keep your lights on at all times, even during the day.
- Don’t assume drivers see you: signal well in advance before changing lanes and watch for turning vehicles.
Drivers:
- Always check twice for motorcycles. Both your mirrors and blind spots.
- Use your signal when changing lanes.
- Never follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.
- When at an intersection, allow enough space before turning.
May is both national bicycle safety and motorcycle safety awareness month, and the Citrus Heights Police Department is reminding drivers and cyclists to look out for eachother on the roadways.
Thanks for reading The Sentinel. You are either trying to access subscribers-only content or you have reached your limit of 4 free articles per 30 days. Click here to sign in or subscribe.
