LAPD Encourages Drivers, Motorists To 'Share The Road' To Help Reduce Collisions
PANORAMA (CBSLA.com) — Officers Wednesday encouraged motorists to "share the road" in order to reduce motorcycle deaths and injuries.
In recognition of May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, police revealed the latest statistics involving motorcycle accidents, displayed photos of what can happen if riders are involved in a crash, and displayed legal and illegal helmets.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, motorcycles are among the smallest and most vulnerable vehicles on the road, which also put riders at greater risk of death and serious injury in a crash.
Motorcyclists are 30 times more likely than occupants of cars to die in a collision, and are five times more likely to be injured, according to the Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Authorities reported there were 361 motorcycle collisions in 2014, 15 of which were fatal.
Most recently, on April 13, police investigated a double fatal collision that involved a motorcycle in the San Fernando Valley.
According to police, a woman in her 60s drove a 2005 Honda Accord when a motorcyclist slammed into her driver's side door at a high rate of speed.
The driver of the motorcycle -- who was later identified as Sergio Olaguez, 30 -- as well as the driver of the Honda were pronounced dead at the scene.
"This is the time of year we see motorcyclists coming out because of warmer weather," explained Det. Bustos. "We're asking for drivers to please give sufficient space to the motorcyclists."
Police recommended drivers and riders to adhere to the following rules in order to help improve highway safety for everyone:
- Signal all lane changes and turns, and constantly check mirrors and blind spots before proceeding
- Be fully focused on the task of driving and in control of their vehicles at all times
- Never drive impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Obey all traffic laws and maintain a proper license
- Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and use reflective tape and gear to become more visible to traffic
For more information on motorcycle safety, click here.
